Chief Ghislain Picard Pays Homage to Chief Billy Diamond for his Important
Contributions to the Cause of First Nations

WENDAKE, QC, Oct 1 /CNW Telbec/ - It is with sadness that Ghislain Picard, Chief of the Assembly of First Nations of Quebec and Labrador, received the news of the passing of Billy Diamond, former Grand Chief of the Cree, who passed away yesterday at the age of 61. "Billy Diamond was a true statesman who made governments change the way they look at First Nations and their issues", stated Chief Picard. "He was a talented politician recognized both by the people of Quebec and the First Nations and a major player in numerous historical achievements such as the James Bay agreement and the constitutional meetings of the 1980s. He was a model for many First Nations politicians", confirmed Mr. Picard.

We remember Billy Diamond as Chief of the Cree community of Waskaganish from 1970 to 1976. He then served as the First Grand Chief of the Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee) from 1976 to 1984, after the Council was created as part of the negotiations leading up to the signature of James Bay agreement, of which he was one of the signatories.

On behalf of the AFNQL Chiefs, Chief Picard wishes to convey his condolences to the family and the Nation of Billy Diamond.

About the AFNQL:
The AFNQL is the regional body representing 43 Chiefs of the First Nations of Quebec and Labrador.  For further information: www.apnql-afnql.com.

For further information:

Éric Cardinal
Communications Advisor
514 258-2315 (cell.)
[email protected]