Cree First Nation of Waswanipi breaks ground on long-awaited hotel [Video]

The Cree First Nation of Waswanipi has officially broken ground on its hotel, marking a milestone for the northern Quebec community after decades of anticipation.

The community first dreamed up the project in the early 1990s during a time of growth for Waswanipi. The idea was to have a spot to host out-of-towners visiting for events like hockey tournaments, snowmobile races and fishing derbies.

The groundbreaking ceremony on June 10 coincided with the 49th anniversary of Waswanipi. Marcel Happyjack, head of Waswanipi Development Corporation, said the project will fill a longstanding gap in the community.

“At times people pass through and look for accommodations. So that will be an opportunity for us to showcase Waswanipi and what we can provide,” said Happyjack.

The project, costing about $12-million, had been continuously delayed due to limited funding but financial support from …