Government of Canada Working in Partnership to Address Recommendations from Inquest into the deaths of Seven First Nations Youth

GATINEAU, QC, Oct. 13, 2016 /CNW Telbec/ - The Government of Canada is committed to working in full partnership with Indigenous peoples across the country, and other partners, to address the very real challenges facing Indigenous youth. Our Government's primary objective remains to support the well-being and improve the education outcomes for First Nations students. Guided by what we hear from Indigenous youth and families, we will work together to move forward together to create a safe and secure education environment that all Canadians expect.

Following the release of the Presiding Coroner's Verdict Explanation, the Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs, Carolyn Bennett, confirmed that the Government of Canada is working diligently to review all recommendations, in consideration of the requests of the families and the parties to the Inquest. Minister Bennett also announced that meetings with First Nations and provincial partners in Ontario have already begun to discuss how the parties to the Inquest can respond to the recommendations of the Coroner's Inquest. The Government of Canada is working to implement the recommendations that can be acted upon immediately, to bring about change quickly, and will continue to work in collaboration with the parties to the Inquest on longer term projects and solutions.

The Government is committed to working in genuine partnership to ensure that First Nation children have access to quality education that they can expect in safe and healthy learning environments.

Quote

"We know that more has to be done, and it will take a lot of effort, but this important work is underway. Together we can move forward Nation-to-Nation to ensure that First Nations-led initiatives are supported and ensure the health and safety of First Nations students attending school off reserve."
The Honourable Carolyn Bennett, M.D., P.C., M.P.
Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs

Quick Facts

• The Government of Canada provides funding for First Nations students attending school away from their communities through funding from Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada's Elementary and Secondary Education Program.
• Budget 2016 investments increased funding to support students from remote First Nations communities who relocate to attend school to better support their wellbeing and foster their relationships and connections to their home.
• This includes additional funding for transportation, accommodation and student support services such as counselling, transition and academic support. These investments will better support students and minimize the impact of leaving home to study.

Associated Links

• Statement - Message from Minister Bennett on the Close of the First Nations Youth Inquest
• First Nations Communities starting to see benefits of Budget 2016 investments in education on reserve
• First Nation Students Start School Year in New Schools

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SOURCE Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada

media may contact: Sabrina Williams, Press Secretary, Office of the Honourable Carolyn Bennett, 819-997-0002; Media Relations, Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada, 819-953-1160