Grand Chief to open, attend AFNQL meeting

02/18/2014

The Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke (MCK) wishes to announce that Grand Chief Michael Ahríhron Delisle Jr. will officially open the Assembly of First Nations of Quebec & Labrador ‘Special Chiefs Assembly’ that begins today in Montreal.

While this assembly has been called to discuss health issues, education will be discussed on Wednesday due to recent developments regarding the First Nations Control of First Nations Education Act. Chief Delisle confirmed he will attend the education portion of the meetings.

“We’ve heard from individuals, communities and Native organizations that are very unhappy with the way this agreement was reached between Prime Minister Harper and AFN Chief Shawn Atleo,” said Chief Delisle. “There are far more questions than answers regarding education, and that is completely unacceptable.”

“As far as we’re concerned, all Harper has done is wave a rather large carrot in front of Native people, which makes it appear like he’s made concessions,” he added. “Native education has always been underfunded and we’re glad that this is being partially addressed. But it is nonetheless disturbing that a deal has been signed through a process that seems to avoid the input of huge portions of First Nations – not only in this region and among the members of the Iroquois Caucus, but in other parts of Canada as well.”

“I look forward to see what the rest of the regional leadership has to say and we will jointly address our concerns,” he concluded.