The Chief of the Assembly of the First Nations of Quebec and Labrador Pays a Final Tribute to Mr. Paul Méquish, an Atikamekw Leader

WENDAKE, QC, April 19, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - The Atikamekw Nation and the First Nation of Opitciwan are mourning at the death of Mr. Paul Méquish. Mr. Méquish was a committed politician at the Chiefs' Table of the Assembly of the First Nations of Quebec and Labrador (AFNQL) for two decades. "Chief Méquish has never given up the fight to improve the living conditions of his community. In the last years, even with a fragile health, Chief Méquish was always present and ready to support and take the action required to further our cause", stated Mr. Ghislain Picard, Chief of the AFNQL.

Much experience and wisdom, Chief Méquish had no hesitation to share his reflections and his questioning. Also, Chief Méquish was able to express a boundless solidarity to his fellow Chiefs, while insisting on the specificities of the Atikamekw Nation. Mr. Méquish had a vision of hope for the future and relied on the younger generation. "What will our youths become if we do not use our tools, such as education?" had once stated Chief Méquish at an assembly of the AFNQL Chiefs. « We have lost a great visionary and leader. His wise guidance will be missed », concluded with regret, Chief Picard.

The Chiefs of the Assembly of the First Nations of Quebec and Labrador join the AFNQL Chief in extending their deepest sympathy to the family of Mr. Paul Méquish, to the community and to the Atikamekw Nation.

Nadine Gros-Louis - AFNQL
Chief of Operations
Telephone: [phone]