2-02478Ottawa, Ontario (March 11, 2004) -- The Government of Canada reaffirmed a new era of collaboration with Canada's Aboriginal community today, following a breakfast meeting with three of the nation's key Aboriginal leaders.The meeting with Prime Minister Martin brought together Phil Fontaine, the National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations, Jose Kusugak, President of the Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, and Clément Chartier, President of the Métis National Council. The Honourable Andy Mitchell, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development, the Honourable Denis Coderre, Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, as well as the Honourable Andrew Telegdi, Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister, were also present at this morning's meeting. "In the Speech from the Throne, the Government committed to ensuring that Aboriginal Canadians participate fully in national life," said Minister Mitchell. "Bringing key Aboriginal leaders together this morning is another step in delivering on this commitment." "We need to work together with Aboriginal leadership to develop new ways of addressing challenges," said Minister Coderre. "We are committed to improving Aboriginal quality of life, and we want Aboriginal leaders to work with us every step of the way as we make this goal a reality." "I believe that opportunities for face-to-face dialogue in meetings such as these are fundamental to improving Aboriginal quality of life," said Mr. Telegdi. "The status quo is not an option and we need to act together now to bring about measurable progress."This new engagement of Aboriginal leaders in public policy development aims to address ways in which the Government of Canada can more effectively involve Aboriginal people in its work. For more information, please contact:Christine Aquino Director of CommunicationsOffice of the Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development(819) 997-0002 Diane LaursenMedia Relations Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (819) 994-2044 Sarah Bain Press Secretary Office of the Honourable Denis Coderre(613) 943-1838 Reevin VinetskyExecutive AssistantOffice of the Honourable Andrew Telegdi(613) 992-6251
