TORONTO – First Nations Chiefs from across Ontario are gathered at the ‘Leaders in the Legislature’ event with Ontario Cabinet Ministers today and tomorrow to discuss collaborative actions on First Nations priority issues.
“This event is a step in the right direction by Premier Kathleen Wynne,” Regional Chief Stan Beardy said. “We have called for Ontario to come to the table and they have agreed. I look forward to advancing the many issues our leaders will discuss in Queen’s Park.”
The ‘Leaders in the Legislature’ event consists of a series of roundtables for First Nations leaders and Ontario Cabinet Ministers addressing key issues such as resource benefit/revenue sharing, Treaty awareness, health, education, infrastructure, economic development and missing and murdered indigenous women.
“Addressing First Nation issues benefits everyone living in Ontario,” said Minister of Aboriginal Affairs David Zimmer. “First Nation youth are the fastest-growing segment of Canada’s population. When First Nation communities and people succeed, all of Ontario succeeds. Working together with the Chiefs of Ontario we can make real progress in closing the socio-economic gap and creating a province where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential.”
The summit builds on events over the summer to commemorate the signing of the Treaty of Niagara. During the commemoration, First Nations and Ontario committed to working together to renew relationships.
“The ‘Leaders in the Legislature’ is a unique opportunity for First Nations leadership to discuss key priorities for their communities and nations with elected officials,” Regional Chief Beardy said. “This direct dialogue will help us build the partnerships necessary for First Nations and government to move forward in a mutually beneficial and respectful way.”
For more information on registration and attendance please contact Marla Monague marla@coo.org or (416) 597 1266 or toll free (877) 517-6527 please visit:http://www.chiefs-of-ontario.org/node/1004
