AFN National Chief and First Nations Leaders Visit First Nations Impacted by Alberta Flooding

OTTAWA, June 27, 2013 /CNW/ - Today, Assembly of First Nations (AFN) Shawn A-in-chut Atleo, accompanied by First Nations leaders including AFN Alberta Regional Chief Cameron Alexis, toured Siksika First Nation and flooded regions and spent time with evacuees to assess the situation firsthand and discuss the necessary next steps with First Nations and government officials .

"Today was one of those moments in life where we are all reminded of the need to work together and support one another during difficult times and beyond. I have met with First Nations leaders and citizens who have been evacuated from their homes. The situation is clearly difficult and requires all our best efforts. The Elders spoke to all of us, including provincial and federal officials and elected representatives, and reminded us that this is what the Treaty relationship is about: working together in partnership, and that this challenging time presents us with an opportunity to build on that partnership and strengthen it," said AFN National Chief Atleo. "These communities will need to be re-built quickly and everyone needs to come together and make sure there is set commitments to help these people who are already some of the most vulnerable in the country. It is essential that all support and relief efforts are done in collaboration with First Nations to ensure urgent and long-term needs are being met.  A plan on some substantial investments in critical infrastructure and long-term sustainable plans for community preparedness and resiliency for the future is needed. We do acknowledge the hard work of all the front line workers and volunteers, aid agencies, government officials and the First Nations leaders and citizens. The AFN will continue to stay in close contact with the affected First Nations and be there to support their efforts."

The AFN encourages everyone to reach out directly to the affected First Nations and to consider donating to this important cause.

Information on the situation and recovery efforts is available on the AFN website at www.afn.ca.

The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada. Follow AFN on Twitter @AFN_Comms, @AFN_Updates.

SOURCE: Assembly of First Nations

Jenna Young AFN Communications Officer 613-241-6789, ext. 401; 613-314-8157 or [email protected]

Alain Garon AFN Bilingual Communications Officer 613-241-6789, ext. 382; 613-292-0857 or [email protected]