First Nations Policing Program - The AFNQL is Encouraged by the Federal Government's Decision

WENDAKE, QC, March 5, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - The Chief of the AFNQL, Ghislain Picard, is encouraged by the decision announced yesterday by the Federal government to maintain, for the next five years, the funding for the First Nations Policing Program.

"It is most certainly a step in the right direction, but we still have a long way to go to ensure quality police services to the First Nations", indicated Ghislain Picard, Chief of the AFNQL.

First Nations Chiefs urge the federal minister, Vic Toews, to commit to a complete update of the whole issue of police services in their communities. On the other hand, the tripartite framework agreements under the First Nations Policing Program require the presence of the Quebec government, and the AFNQL is of the opinion that the participation of provincial minister, Stéphane Bergeron, is essential.

"After more than twenty years, the tripartite agreements which govern the First Nations Policing Program must go under full review, in which all three parties, First Nations, the federal government and the provincial government, must participate. The status quo is no longer a choice. The scale and the severe consequences of the problems faced by our police services, requires it. I am calling today on the two ministers responsible to commit immediately to this comprehensive review", concluded Chief Ghislain Picard.

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

SOURCE: ASSEMBLY OF FIRST NATIONS OF QUEBEC AND LABRADOR

Mélanie Vincent
418-842-5020
418-580-4442
[email protected]