Minister Philpott congratulates Council of Atikamekw Nation for creating culturally appropriate youth protection plan for members of Manawan and Wemotaci communities
News Release
The Council of the Atikamekw Nation becomes the first First Nations organization in Quebec to create and run such a system
January 30, 2018 Ottawa, ON Department of Indigenous Services
Minister of Indigenous Services Jane Philpott, offers her congratulations to the Council of the Atikamekw Nation and the Manawan and Wemotaci communities, who celebrated the signing of an agreement with the Government of Quebec for the creation of an Atikamekw intervention system for protecting Witcihiwewin Atikamekw Nehirowisiskak youth.
The agreement establishes a special youth protection plan within the Atikamekw communities and gives the Atikamekw Director of Social Protection the responsibilities usually given to Quebec’s Director of Youth Protection.
Quotes
“This agreement between the Council of the Atikamekw Nation and the Government of Quebec fully respects Indigenous communities’ right to independence and to decide what is best for them and their children. It reflects the Government of Canada’s commitment to promoting the development of systems that are respectful of cultures and languages, and are administered by and for Indigenous people. I commend the Council of the Atikamekw Nation, through whose efforts and perseverance this historic agreement was reached.”
The Honourable Jane Philpott, M.D., P.C., M.P.
Minister of Indigenous Services
“We will now be able to take full responsibility for the development of our youth in a context that is respectful of our traditions and our lifestyle. This agreement is a fundamental step on the long road to the independence of our institutions.”
Constant Awashish
Grand Chief of Atikamekw Nation Council
Associated Links
- The Council of the Atikamekw Nation offers programs and services to its members in the area of social services, education, language and culture, technical services and economic development. It defends and promotes the rights and interests of the Atikamekw people.
- Indigenous Services Canada funds social programs in Indigenous communities.
Contacts
For more information, the media can contact:
Andrew MacKendrick
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Jane Philpott
819-956-5372
Media Relations
Department of Indigenous Services Canada
Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada
819-953-1160