Bill C-21 – The AFNQL Asks for a Year’s Delay

WENDAKE, QC, Nov. 16 – The Assembly of First Nations of Quebec and Labrador (AFNQL) is deeply disappointed that the federal government has opted to reintroduce a bill largely unchanged from Bill C-44 from the last Parliament. Bill C-44 was debated at the Standing Committee on Aboriginal Affairs last spring where it heard from the First Nations that Canada’s Constitution obliges that any Federal initiative that impacts the rights of the First Nations must first be discussed with us and is subject to our consent. Bill C-21, like Bill C-44 before it, will affect our rights and neither the consultation nor the consent has occurred. The AFNQL works hard to maintain an attitude of respect toward the Federal Government when that element essential to good relations is not reciprocated. As leaders of modern First Nations planning well into the future for the well being of our peoples we are almost incredulous that we must face such repeated insults by Canada to our status as nations and to our collective rights.

The AFNQL hereby repeats its position presented to the Standing Committee in spring 2007, that has two basic elements: ” Delay the bill for a year to allow for proper consultations with First Nations and provide adequate funds to First Nations so that we can properly evaluate its effects and to develop sound means to mitigate any possible harm to our collective rights “, states the AFNQL Chief, Ghislain Picard.

The Assembly of First Nations of Québec and Labrador is the Chiefs of the First Nations of Québec and Labrador regional organization.

For further information: Alain Garon, Communications Officer, AFNQL, (418) 842-5020, Cellular: (418) 956-5720