Ottawa (June 20, 2008) - The Honorable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, today announced the re-appointment of the members of the Cree-Naskapi Commission. The terms of appointment for Mr. Philip Awashish and Mr. Robert Kanatewat, as well as the chairman, Mr. Richard Saunders, have been renewed for another two years.
The Cree-Naskapi Commission is an independent, non-governmental body established to monitor the implementation of the Cree-Naskapi (of Quebec) Act. This Act is Canada's first Aboriginal self-government legislation which is provided for by the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement and the Northeastern Quebec Agreement.
"I am pleased to re-appoint all three members of the Commission as recommended by the Cree Regional Authority and the Naskapi of Quebec," said Minister Strahl. "The Government of Canada remains committed to making implementation as efficient as possible and will continue to work in partnership with Aboriginal organizations to realize concrete results."
The Cree-Naskapi Commission is required to provide a report to the Parliament of Canada every two years on the overall progress and status of the implementation of the Cree-Naskapi (of Quebec) Act. The Commission's report is prepared after consultation with the communities and the federal government on successes, problems, concerns and general progress. In addition, it is the mandate of the commission to receive and investigate specific complaints from affected bands, groups or individuals about the implementation and application of the Act, and to prepare reports and recommendations on the matters investigated.
The Government of Canada is committed to making real progress in improving the quality of life in Aboriginal communities.
For further information please contact:
Minister's Office
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Chuck Strahl
819-997-0002
Media Relations
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
819-953-1160
