Treatment of Indigenous peoples in the Canadian justice system: The AFNQL supports demands for a Royal Commission

Press Release

WENDAKE, QC, Feb. 27, 2018 – The Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador (AFNQL) stands in solidarity with First Nations on the movement demanding a reform of the Canadian justice system which treats Indigenous peoples in an unacceptable manner.

“The recent decisions in the Boushie and Fontaine cases are extremely troubling, and we stand together with the families in these trials. We can only believe that we are facing a system of injustice. At our last assembly, the Chiefs of the AFNQL pressed Minister of Justice, Jody Wilson-Raybould, on the need to put an end to the inequitable treatment of Indigenous peoples in this country that prides itself on being one of the best in the world. By holding a Royal Commission, we could finally have answers about the fallibility of the system, but more importantly, we would have solutions to ensure that fair measures are put in place that are adapted to Canada’s societal realities. Everyone in this country is guaranteed the right to equal justice and any manifestation of injustice must be resolved once and for all,” said Ghislain Picard, Chief of the AFNQL.

About the AFNQL
The Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador is the regional political body that brings together the 43 Chiefs of the First Nations of Quebec and Labrador. www.apnql.com

For further information: Alain Garon, agaron@apnql.com, Communications Advisor, Cell: 418-254-4620

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