National Inquiry on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls: Families Must Continue to Be Heard

WENDAKE, QC, June 5, 2018 /CNW Telbec/ - The Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador (AFNQL) takes note of the federal government's decision to extend the mandate of the National Inquiry by six (6) months to allow it to listen to the families affected by these human tragedies and, to put its energies on the presentation of a final report.

"As always, our thoughts and prayers go to the families. We are hopeful that the process will finally shed light on a situation in which we have collectively and at length denounced the impacts in the interests of justice and fairness for women, girls and families, but also for entire communities. Respect for the rights of victims requires that the justice system that has put in place the Inquiry through our relentless pressures respects the duty it has to ensure the sustainability of the support measures," said Ghislain Picard, Chief of the AFNQL.

Indeed, the AFNQL wishes to stress that the additional measures announced today to support families will meet their needs and ensure the necessary space and comfort to get through these tragedies they have been suffering from for a number of years. It must be a priority for the federal government. "While the intention to increase health support and grant support for survivors and their families until 2020 is well received, we ask that the government's commitment be maintained as long as there are needs," concluded the Chief of the AFNQL.

About the AFNQL
The Assembly of First Nations of Quebec and Labrador is the political organization regrouping 43 Chiefs of the First Nations in Quebec and Labrador. Follow us on Twitter @APNQL

SOURCE Assembly of First Nations of Quebec and Labrador

Alain Garon, [email protected], Communications Officer, Cell. : [phone]