Provincial Elections: AFNQL Calls on Political Parties to Work Together to Build More Equitable Access to Public Services for First Nations

WENDAKE, QC, Sept. 9, 2026 /CNW/ -- With the provincial election scheduled for October 5 fast approaching, the Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador (AFNQL) is calling on all political parties to make concrete commitments to work with First Nations to build a fairer, more inclusive, and more prosperous society, grounded in substantive equality, respect for rights, and recognition of their jurisdictions.

The AFNQL is urging the next Government of Quebec to take priority action to ensure equitable access to public services, particularly in the areas of health, public safety, child and family services, as well as education, languages, and culture.

• Health: Access to safe, discrimination-free care, including through the full implementation of Joyce's Principle and respect for Jordan's Principle, helps reduce the human and social costs associated with delays in care and strengthens trust in public institutions.
• Child and Family Services: Supporting First Nations-led child and family services allows children to grow up within their families, communities, and cultures. This approach promotes family stability, youth well-being, and the transmission of values and languages that form the foundation of strong and resilient First Nations.
• Education, Languages, and Culture: Strengthening and developing education systems adapted to First Nations realities, combined with the revitalization of ancestral languages, contributes to educational success, cultural identity, and the development of the next generation of leaders, workers, and professionals. These achievements also enrich our shared cultural heritage and play a key role in collective economic development.
• Public Safety and Justice: Recognizing First Nations police services as essential services and improving access to justice will help increase public safety, strengthen confidence in institutions, and build safer communities for everyone.

"A proud, healthy, and educated people, supported by a dynamic youth, can only generate positive outcomes for society. The future calls on us to come together to carry out the major initiatives that lie ahead. Removing certain barriers requires genuine political will, and that will can help turn these aspirations into reality," said Francis Verreault-Paul, Chief of the AFNQL.

Over the coming weeks, the AFNQL will engage with the various political parties to secure clear and measurable commitments that will advance substantive equality and help build a future based on respect, collaboration, and collective
well-being.

About the AFNQL
The Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador is the regional political organization representing the 43 Chiefs of the First Nations of Quebec and Labrador. For more information, visit the AFNQL website at www.apnql.com.

SOURCE Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador

For information: Gabrielle Lavigne-Couture, [email protected], 581-984-7779