OTTAWA, ONTARIO (August 9, 2014) – The Honourable Bernard Valcourt, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, issued the following statement on the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples:
"International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples provides us with an opportunity to reflect on the contributions and achievements of Indigenous peoples in Canada and around the world, and to reaffirm our commitment to working together toward our shared objectives of healthy, more prosperous and self-sufficient Indigenous communities.
With Aboriginal youth as the fastest growing segment of Canada's population, our Government believes that Canada is a better, stronger nation when we work together towards long-term prosperity. The Government of Canada will continue taking steps together to improve, for example, our shared goals, such as skills training and economic opportunities for the country's Aboriginal peoples.
I invite all Canadians to celebrate along with other nations on this important day and to honour the contributions and achievements of all Indigenous peoples at home and abroad."
Erica Meekes
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Bernard Valcourt
819-997-0002
Media Relations
Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada
819-953-1160
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