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January 24, 2006

Statement by Assembly of First Nations National Chief Phil Fontaine on Election Results

“I would like to congratulate the new Prime Minister-Elect, Stephen Harper, and his party's success in this election. As well, I want to congratulate all candidates and all parties on their dedication.  We look forward to working with the new government to ensure a better quality of life for First Nations and a stronger country for all Canadians.

With the election of a new minority government and a strong opposition slate, it is time for Parliament to work together and with First Nations to ensure we maintain the momentum achieved over the past 18 months. The commitments from the First Ministers Meeting, the Residential Schools Agreement in Principle and the continued high-level engagement between the Government of Canada and First Nations must be honoured and supported by this new Parliament. Closing the gap in quality of life between First Nations and other Canadians within ten years must remain our shared legacy project. Our population is young and growing.  It is in all our interests to reach out to this important demographic. Our future is Canada's future.

The AFN remained non-partisan during the election and did not endorse any party, although we did seek clear commitments on our agenda and our priorities. We were consistently re-assured that the Conservative Party would respect the objectives and targets of the First Ministers Meeting and would implement the Residential Schools Agreement. We will seek a meeting as soon as possible to discuss how we move forward on these commitments. We also expect that the Liberal, New Democratic and Bloc Québecois parties will continue to support these commitments and work to ensure progress, as they have in the past.

I congratulate Stephen Harper on his success. He stated that he is seeking to give provinces and territories more say in decision-making on national priorities, as well as more access and control to resources in their regions. In many ways, this is what First Nations are seeking. A Prime Minister from a Western province is no doubt aware of the issues that face our people. This includes the pressing labour market needs, and that tapping the potential of our young and growing population is essential to Canada's continued success and productivity. There are many win-win approaches to our mutual issues and we want to work on an agenda aimed at getting results that honours the Conservative legacy of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples by honouring its recommendations.

To outgoing Prime Minister Martin, I want to personally acknowledge your commitment and your efforts to improve the lives of First Nations and all Canadians. Your approach of constructive and cooperative engagement has led to establishing of a template for future relations between our people and Canada. Your long career as a Parliamentarian is to be acknowledged with great respect.

To Mister Duceppe and Mister Layton, and the members of the opposition, it is clear that the influence you hold will be vitally important in this minority government. I look forward to seeing the continued support of your parties for the issues that matter to First Nations. You have stood with us before. We hope you will stand with us again.  To all Canadians, we say that now is the time for action on our long-standing issues so we can build a better Canada for all.” 

The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada.

Contacts:

Don Kelly, AFN Communications Director
613-241-6789 ext. 320 or cell 613-292-2787

Ian McLeod, AFN Bilingual Communications Officer
613-241-6789 ext. 336 or cell 613-859-4335

Nancy Pine, Communications Advisor, Office of the National Chief
613-241-6789 ext. 243 or cell 613-298-6382