Statement by New Democrat Leader Tom Mulcair on the election of the Assembly of First Nations' National Chief

“On behalf of Canada's Official Opposition, I offer my sincere congratulations to Perry Bellegarde on his election as the head of the Assembly of First Nations. I look forward to working in collaboration with National Chief Perry Bellegarde on the many pressing issues facing First Nations across Canada, including the renewed call for a national inquiry into the issue of missing and murdered Aboriginal women and girls.

I would also like to acknowledge and thank all the candidates for putting their names forward.

The Assembly of First Nations plays an important role in raising Canadians awareness on the urgent need for action to improve living standards, ending violence against Indigenous women and girls and provide better educational opportunities for young people.

New Democrats remain unwavering in our commitment to a nation to nation relationship that respects inherent rights and title of Canada's First Nations.”