Assembly of First Nations Welcomes Announcement on a Five Year Commitment for Stable and Dependable Funding for First Nations Policing Services

OTTAWA, March 4, 2013 /CNW/ - Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo along with AFN Quebec/Labrador Regional Chief Ghislain Picard and Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg Chief Gilbert Whiteduck met today with Public Security Minister Vic Toews to talk about long-term funding for First Nations police services. This meeting was seen as encouraging and a good first step towards improving public safety in First Nations communities.

"We welcome this announcement by Minister Toews. An immediate renewal of funding and then a commitment to working towards long term sustainability is very important.  Now we must turn our attention to all jurisdictions working together to strengthen and secure First Nations policing through partnership and innovation. It is essential that we promote and deliver on safety and security for all of our communities," said AFN National Chief Shawn Atleo.

Following this meeting today, in the House of Commons, the Government of Canada announced  that funding for policing agreements with First Nation and Inuit communities will be renewed under the First Nations Policing Program (FNPP) and further committed to a multi-year agreement for the next five years

"Today's announcement represents a concrete and  important step in the right direction for First Nations as there are First Nations police services in most of our regions. We look forward to working with all First Nations to keep pushing this progress forward," said AFN Justice Portfolio holder, Alberta Regional Chief Cameron Alexis. "As we continue this work,  I would also like to offer our appreciation for the First Nations Chiefs of Police Association for their advocacy and support for our communities."

AFN and Native Women's Association of Canada will host a National Forum on Community Safety and Ending Violence April 9 and 10, 2013. For more information: http://www.afn.ca/uploads/files/events/forumendingviolence-kit.pdf

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

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]