Assembly of First Nations National Chief Congratulates New Ontario Regional Chief Stan Beardy, Honours Angus Toulouse

OTTAWA, June 27, 2012 /CNW/ - Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo welcomes Stan Beardy to the national executive to represent Ontario region as AFN Regional Chief.

"I offer congratulations to newly elected Regional Chief Stan Beardy and look forward to working together to address the many challenges and very important issues facing all First Nation communities across Ontario region," said AFN National Chief Shawn Atleo.  "I also commend the commitment and dedication of Angus Toulouse who served as Ontario Regional Chief for seven years.  His hard work and efforts brought forward a number of priority issues in Ontario region and his leadership was essential, particularly in the area of health, in building a solid foundation from which to move forward."

Stan Beardy was elected AFN Ontario Regional Chief this morning at the All Ontario Chiefs Conference in Toronto, Ontario through traditional process. He has been Grand Chief of Nishnawbe Aski Nation, representing 49 First Nation communities across northern Ontario, since 2000. He will join the AFN national executive at the upcoming Annual General Assembly taking place in Toronto July 17-19, 2012.

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

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]