Ref. #2-3413
Ottawa, Ontario (October 1, 2010) - The Honourable John Duncan, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians issued the following statement today on the passing of Billy Diamond, former Grand Chief of the Crees of Quebec:
"It is with great sadness that I learned of the passing of Billy Diamond, a dedicated individual and great leader. On behalf of the Government of Canada, I would like to extend my most sincere condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Billy Diamond, former Grand Chief of the Crees of Quebec.
At the young age of 21, Mr. Diamond became Chief of the Waskaganish First Nation. In 1974, he founded the Grand Council of the Crees of Quebec and acted as Grand Chief until 1984.
In 1974, Billy Diamond represented the Crees in James Bay when the First Nation signed a groundbreaking hydro deal with the province of Quebec. A year later, he was instrumental in the signing of the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement, which is considered as Canada's first modern treaty.
As a representative of the Crees of Quebec and the Assembly of First Nations, Billy Diamond participated in the constitutional conferences of 1982 and 1983, as a result of which the Canadian Constitution has undergone significant changes in terms of Aboriginal rights. As an entrepreneur, he created Air Creebec, the Cree Construction Company Limited and Cree Yamaha Motors.
Mr. Diamond will be remembered for his strong leadership, perseverance and his determination to work towards an improved quality of life for his people, the Crees of Quebec."
Minister's Office
Michele-Jamali Paquette
Office of the Honourable John Duncan
Press Secretary
819-997-0002
Media Relations
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
819-953-1160
