Ref. #2-3573
Ottawa, Ontario (November 12, 2011) – The Honourable John Duncan, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, issued the following statement today:
"Today marks an important milestone in Canada's relationship with First Nations, Métis and Inuit across the country. A year ago, Canada endorsed the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. This was another step in further reconciling and strengthening our relationship.
Since 2006, our government has worked towards a renewed relationship with Aboriginal peoples of Canada, exemplified by the Prime Minister's historic apology to former students of Indian Residential Schools, the apology for the relocation of Inuit families to the High Arctic, and the honoring of Métis veterans at Juno Beach.
We continue to take concrete action on important issues like education, economic development, housing, child and family services, access to safe drinking water, and the extension of human rights protection and matrimonial real property protection to First Nations on reserve. We announced a Joint Action Plan with the Assembly of First Nations and launched a National Education Panel. In addition, we have worked in partnership with Métis leaders and organizations to establish the Métis Entrepreneurship Fund. We have also made important investments to Nunavut Sivuniksavut to provide students with a unique education program to learn about Inuit history and prepare for the labour force.
These steps are strengthening and supporting opportunities for a better future and quality of life for Aboriginal peoples.
Canada is strongly committed to furthering a positive relationship with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people based on our shared history, respect and desire to focus on delivering tangible results."
For more information, please contact:
Minister's Office
Moira Wolstenholme
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable John Duncan
819-997-0002
Media Relations
Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada
819-953-1160
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