The Quebec Government's Health and Social Services Network - The First Nations Are Well Represented Among the Boards of Directors

WENDAKE, QC, Oct. 8, 2015 /CNW Telbec/ - Recently, the Minister of Health and Social Services, Mr. Gaétan Barrette, announced the appointment of four First Nations people to the boards of directors of the Centres intégrés de santé et de services sociaux (CISSS), the Centres intégrés universitaires de santé et de services sociaux (CIUSSS) as well as non-incorporated institutions.

The Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador (AFNQL) is very pleased with and proud of this positive representation within the network. Chief Salomée McKenzie will be a member of the Board of Directors for the CISSS de l'Abitibi-Témiscamingue. Ms. McKenzie has a wealth of expertise in the area of mental health. Mr. Gilbert W. Whiteduck, who has extensive experience with community-based organisations, will be a member of the Board of Directors for the CISSS de l'Outaouais. Mr. Michel Paul and Mr. Jean-Marie Vollant will be members of the Board of Directors for the CISSS de la Côte-Nord. Both of them have a lot of expertise related to rehabilitation and youth protection.

These appointments follow-up on the sanctions of An Act to Modify the Organization and Governance of the Health and Social Services Network in Particular by Abolishing the Regional Agencies (Act 10) which has been in force since April. The independent members of the boards of directors were appointed by the Minister in accordance with the recommendations that were made by expert committees on governance. 

The AFNQL would like to congratulate these four individuals for their prestigious appointments and it is certain that these people, who have proven their dedication to the First Nations populations, will make use of their expertise in order to put forward the genuine needs of the communities. They will of course vigorously represent the First Nations among these boards of directors. First Nations are truly fortunate to be able to count on their experience.

It is possible to view the list of those who were selected for each institution at the following address: www.msss.gouv.qc.ca/reseau/ca.

About the AFNQL
The Assembly of First Nations 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