Minister Philpott congratulates Council of Atikamekw Nation for creating culturally appropriate youth protection plan for members of Manawan and Wemotaci communities

The Council of the Atikamekw Nation becomes the first First Nations organization in Quebec to create and run such a system

OTTAWA, Jan. 30, 2018 /CNW/ - Minister of Indigenous Services Jane Philpott, offers her congratulations to the Council of the Atikamekw Nation and the Manawan and Wemotaci communities, who celebrated the signing of an agreement with the Government of Quebec for the creation of an Atikamekw intervention system for protecting Witcihiwewin Atikamekw Nehirowisiskak youth.

The agreement establishes a special youth protection plan within the Atikamekw communities and gives the Atikamekw Director of Social Protection the responsibilities usually given to Quebec's Director of Youth Protection.

"This agreement between the Council of the Atikamekw Nation and the Government of Quebec fully respects Indigenous communities' right to independence and to decide what is best for them and their children. It reflects the Government of Canada's commitment to promoting the development of systems that are respectful of cultures and languages, and are administered by and for Indigenous people. I commend the Council of the Atikamekw Nation, through whose efforts and perseverance this historic agreement was reached."

The Honourable Jane Philpott, M.D., P.C., M.P.
Minister of Indigenous Services

"We will now be able to take full responsibility for the development of our youth in a context that is respectful of our traditions and our lifestyle. This agreement is a fundamental step on the long road to the independence of our institutions."

Constant Awashish
Grand Chief of Atikamekw Nation Council

Quick Facts

• The Council of the Atikamekw Nation offers programs and services to its members in the area of social services, education, language and culture, technical services and economic development. It defends and promotes the rights and interests of the Atikamekw people.
• Indigenous Services Canada funds social programs in Indigenous communities.

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SOURCE Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada

Andrew MacKendrick, Press Secretary, Office of the Honourable Jane Philpott, 819-956-5372; Media Relations, Department of Indigenous Services Canada, Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada, 819-953-1160