National Inuit Leader Urges Prime Minister Harper to Convene First Ministers’ Meeting on Aboriginal Issues in 2010

 

“The deep and divisive economic and social gaps that separate Inuit and other Aboriginal peoples in Canada from other Canadians demand that we put the tools of our Confederation fully and creatively to work,” said Ms. Simon.

 

“In our discussions today, it has been clear that there is a growing appreciation among political leaders in Canada, independently of partisan or regional considerations, that tackling and eliminating gaps in Aboriginal peoples’ access to decent education, health, and housing requires a high and consistent level of national attention and leadership,” added Ms. Simon. “I am sure Canadians throughout the country will welcome Prime Minister Harper exercising his prerogative to call an FMM that, on the one hand, will be soon enough to show determination to make progress, and, on the other hand, allows sufficient preparation time to make concrete decisions and adopt specific time targets for progress.”

 

The national Inuit leader expressed the fear that a policy drift or vacuum on Aboriginal issues carries major risks, including contributing to unresolved tensions in Canadian society, and undermining Canadian economic performance and productivity.

 

“Given the additional challenges Inuit are facing in the Arctic, from climate change and adaptation to issues of sovereignty and regional international cooperation, we really need to see Canada effectively engaged and delivering results,” concluded President Simon.