Ottawa, Ontario (July 18, 2012) - The Honourable John Duncan, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada today issued the following statement on the re-election of Shawn Atleo as the National Chief for the Assembly of First Nations:
"I am pleased to offer my congratulations to National Chief Atleo on this important day.
Today's outcome is an acknowledgement of the progress we are making toward our common goal of healthier, more self-sufficient First Nation communities.
The AFN remains an important partner in our Government's efforts to make real and lasting progress on the issues facing First Nations across Canada. In June 2011, the Government of Canada and the Assembly of First Nations launched the Joint Action Plan, which in turn resulted in the historic Crown-First Nations Gathering on January 24, 2012. We remain committed to the completion of the Joint Action Plan and moving forward on the outcomes of the Crown-First Nations Gathering such as increasing opportunities for education and economic development.
Building on the progress we have made together will require us to have the courage to embrace change, while respecting our shared past, and to ask tough questions. In this spirit our Government will continue to take practical, meaningful action to create the conditions for Canada's First Nations to achieve the prosperity they seek, benefitting not just them, but all Canadians.
I am looking forward to working together with the National Chief on issues of importance to First Nations in Canada. I believe it is only through collaboration, partnership and mutual respect that we will arrive at solutions which result in a real difference in the lives of us all."
Jan O'Driscoll
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable John Duncan
819-997-0002
Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada
819-953-1160
