The AFNQL applauds the collaboration between the provincial government and First Nations for two bills and calls for this practice to become routine in all files concerning First Nations

WENDAKE, QC, Oct. 6, 2016 /CNW Telbec/ - While presenting its brief on Bill 99: An Act to Amend the Youth Protection Act and other Provisions, and the tabling of Bill 113: An Act to amend the Civil Code and other legislative provisions as regards adoption and the disclosure of information, which recognizes the legal effects of customary adoption, the Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador (AFNQL) applauded the collaboration between First Nations, Inuit and the Quebec government that went into the drafting of the new legislative provisions.

The AFNQL nonetheless lamented the short deadlines that were imposed by the Quebec government on First Nations to react to the proposed amendments regarding the recognition of customary adoption, which has been common practice for all consultation processes coordinated by the Quebec government. The AFNQL insisted that the Quebec government take the initiative to propose such a collaborative approach during the early stages of a new bill or new policy that could have an impact on First Nations.

"Customary adoption is an institution of such great importance for First Nations and Inuit families in Quebec, and, in light of the diversity of our nations, it was highly concerning to have the Quebec government wait so long to invite First Nations to collaborate on this file, and provide such short deadlines," said Ghislain Picard, Chief of the AFNQL. "The principles of government action with respect to First Nations and Inuit also require that the government provide the necessary time so that First Nations may comment, propose amendments and consent, as applicable, and in an enlightened manner, to the tabling of a bill, without having to contend with the pressures associated with the province's political priorities," reminded the Chief.

About the AFNQL
The Assembly of First Nations of Quebec-Labrador is the political organization of 43 Chiefs of the First Nations in Quebec and Labrador. www.apnql-afnql.com

SOURCE Assembly of First Nations of Quebec and Labrador

Mélanie Vincent: [email protected], Cell.: 418-580-4442