‘Now is the time to begin a new relationship’

A statement from Thomas Mulcair on today’s declaration.

The NDP support the principles outlined in the important Declaration of Commitment released today.

We remain committed to building a new nation-to-nation relationship with First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. The cornerstone of this relationship is real co-operation and meaningful consultation that fully respects Aboriginal rights.

Today’s Declaration calls for action on important issues such as improving housing and schools on reserves, respecting treaty and non-treaty rights, and rethinking our approach to resource development, all of which must be part of the federal government`s dialogue with First Nations.

Now is the time to begin a new relationship with First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples to replace today`s broken relationship. We need to act now and help realize the potential that exists within dynamic young First Nation communities. We cannot continue down the current path and alienate another generation of aboriginal peoples. Canada is stronger when we choose to work together.