OTTAWA, ONTARIO (June 23, 2010) – Today, the Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, together with Grand Chief Ron Evans of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs, announced the appointment of James Brook Wilson as Commissioner of the Treaty Relations Commission of Manitoba.
Mr. Wilson's extensive experience in the field of education makes him ideally suited to lead the Commission's work to raise public awareness of the importance of treaties in Manitoba,
said Minister Strahl. Treaties are an integral part of our history. They define Canada's ongoing relationship with First Nations and ensure that First Nation and non-First Nation people can enjoy Canada's benefits together.
We are pleased to have James Brook Wilson appointed as Treaty Commissioner in Manitoba,
said Grand Chief Evans. Leading the work of the Treaty Relations Commission through research, education, awareness and facilitation is very important to First Nations, non-First Nations, the province and Canada. We must all acknowledge and uphold Treaties as an integral part of our collective history and future.
A treaty commission is a neutral, arm's-length body that helps facilitate discussions about treaties. Treaty commissions are part of the government's ongoing commitment to address historic treaty issues through co-operative relationships with Treaty First Nations.
The Treaty Relations Commission of Manitoba was established jointly in 2005 by Canada and the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs. The mandate of the Commission includes activities such as public education, facilitation and research. Since 2005, through new partnerships with Red River College, Riding Mountain National Park, University College of the North, and Winnipeg Police Services, the Commission has contributed to an improved understanding of historic treaties and treaty relationships.
Appointments to the Commission are made by the Governor in Council and informed by a joint selection process with the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs and Indian and Northern Affairs Canada. Governor in Council appointments are based on the guiding principles of competency, professionalism and accessibility to all Canadians.
Michelle Yao
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Chuck Strahl
Press Secretary
819-997-0002
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
819-953-1160
Doug Thomas
Director of Corporate Communications
888-324-5483
204-957-8451
