/R E P E A T -- Media advisory - Union leader joins Nishiyuu Walkers as they reach Ottawa/

OTTAWA, March 22, 2013 /CNW/ - One of Canada's largest private sector unions is showing solidarity with the Nishiyuu Walkers, who have spent the past 10 weeks walking towards Parliament Hill from Whapmagoostui in Northern Quebec.

Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union (CEP) President Dave Coles will join the walkers as they arrive on Victoria Island, Monday, March 25th between noon and 2pm. Council of Canadians National Chairperson Maude Barlow will also be present.

"This long march is a monumental effort to unite First Nations and promote their language, culture and tradition," says Coles. "We can all take a page from their book. Their actions are inspiring and should teach us all a lesson in community-building, resistance and strength."

The walk started in the context of the Idle No More movement and has grown from seven to over 150 young people. The original group of seven youth has been making its way through Cree and Algonquin lands and their journey will culminate on Parliament Hill next week.

Coles also called on Prime Minister Stephen Harper to join the walkers, noting that the federal government is forever in debt to Canada's First Nations communities. "If Mr. Harper cares about First Nations communities in Canada, here is a perfect opportunity for him to show it."

More information about the journey can be found at: www.NishiyuuJourney.ca

SOURCE: COMMUNICATIONS, ENERGY AND PAPERWORKERS UNION OF CANADA

Dave Coles, [phone]