Tom Mulcair to launch ‘new era’ of relations

Official Opposition Leader Tom Mulcair announced that an NDP government will usher in a new era of relations with Indigenous communities in Canada. In an address to the Assembly of First Nations annual general assembly, Mr. Mulcair stressed how the NDP will seek to reduce poverty, improve educational outcomes and increase opportunities for First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities across Canada.

“It’s time for a new era that embraces a true Nation-to-Nation relationship, built on respect and, above all, makes meaningful progress when it comes to bringing about change,” said Mulcair. “A new era starts with listening and an understanding that ‘meaningful consultation and accommodation’ isn’t just a catch phrase.”

Under the leadership of Tom Mulcair, an NDP government will create a cabinet-level committee, chaired by the prime minister, to ensure federal government decisions respect treaty rights, inherent rights and Canada’s international obligations.

“Over the last several years, there is nothing I have dedicated more of my time to than establishing a Nation-to-Nation relationship between Indigenous peoples and the Crown,” added Mr. Mulcair. “To get different results, we need a different approach and that starts with listening.”

After too many decades of inaction and empty promises by Liberal and Conservative governments, the NDP will make progress on important issues such as First Nations education. An NDP government will also call a national inquiry into missing and murdered Indigenous women, as well as act upon the report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission—beginning with its most pressing recommendations—in consultation with Indigenous communities.