Grand Chief Delisle says Valcourt did the right thing by putting C-33 Education Act on hold

05/05/2014

The Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke (MCK) wishes to advise the community that Bernard Valcourt, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada, has issued a notice that the controversial First Nations Control of First Nations Education Act legislation (C-33) has been put on hold effective immediately.

The news follows the sudden resignation of Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Shawn Atleo last week. Chief Atleo had been under increasing pressure since the February 7th announcement was made that launched C-33. Chief Atleo was in firm support of the legislation and was present at its launch.

“Indian Affairs Minister Valcourt did the right thing by putting C-33 on hold,” said Grand Chief Michael Ahríhron Delisle, Jr. “It has become abundantly clear that the Harper/Atleo alliance failed because there was no effort to actually consult with First Nations, despite claims to the contrary. And, with increasing numbers of First Nations leaders, organizations and citizens voicing their strong objections on this matter, something had to give.”

“While there may be many people who are happy at the moment, we must remind ourselves that there is a great deal of work that has to be done,” continued Grand Chief Delisle. “We still need to find ways to improve our education systems. Perhaps this will give us the collective push we need to finally work together to ensure a better future for our young people.”

More information on Kahnawà:ke’s position can be found online at kahnawake.com.