Abandoning reserves not the answer to aboriginal suicide: former PM – Montreal Gazette

May 25, 2016

People should not have to abandon aboriginal reserves in order to address growing suicide rates across the country, former prime minister Paul Martin said at an event in Montreal Wednesday.

In the wake of an epidemic of suicide attempts in the Attawapiskat territory and other remote First Nations, several prominent Canadians have suggested there needs to be a mass exodus from the country’s reserves. Most notably, former prime minister Jean Chrétien said last month that people have to move away from reserves and seek economic opportunities in the city.

Martin rejected this notion as he spoke at a WE Day event in Old Montreal aimed at teaching non-aboriginal students about aboriginal culture and history.

Read More: http://montrealgazette.com/news/national/abandoning-reserves-not-the-answer-to-aboriginal-suicide-former-pm