AFN National Chief Welcomes Legislation Proposed by Bloc Québécois: Calls on
Parliament to Support First Nations Education

OTTAWA, Dec. 1 /CNW/ - Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo said today he welcomes draft legislation - Bill C-599 - introduced by the Bloc Québécois aimed at strengthening First Nations education and is calling on Parliament and Canada to work with First Nations to take action on education.

The National Chief stated: "One year ago, Chiefs from across Canada stood together behind our youth representatives and asked the Government of Canada to work with First Nations to address current inequities and the lack of sustainable support for First Nation education.  First Nation education is currently funded under an outdated policy and practice and has been capped at only a 2 per cent increase for over a decade. Throughout the year, we have repeated this message and, while there seems to be growing consensus that action is needed, we do not yet have a firm commitment from the Government of Canada.

We believe all Canadians are willing to walk forward with us to build and implement sustainable First Nation schools and supports. This is now an absolute imperative for First Nations and we will not let our youth and our communities down. I believe Canadians also understand that strong First Nations make a strong Canada, and education is critical to strengthening First Nations.

The legislation tabled today by Bloc Québécois Members of Parliament Marc Lemay and Yvon Lévesque demonstrates leadership in setting forward a clear commitment and timeframe for real and lasting change. We applaud this initiative from the Bloc Québécois and ask all Parliamentarians to support First Nation education."

AFN Regional Chief for Quebec-Labrador Ghislain Picard participated in a press conference with Bloc Québécois MPs Marc Lemay and Yvon Lévesque in Ottawa today to announce the legislation.  

The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada.

For further information:

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

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