(May 13, 2025 – Unceded Algonquin Territory, Ottawa) – Today, National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak released the following statement in response to the swearing-in of Canada’s 30th Cabinet:
“On behalf of the Assembly of First Nations, we extend our congratulations to Prime Minister Mark Carney and all Ministers and Secretaries of State,” said National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak. “We look forward to working with the new Cabinet to advance the Prosperity for All priorities we put forward during the federal election.”
“We recognize the historic appointment of two First Nations women to Cabinet, Minister Rebecca Chartrand as Minister of Northern and Arctic Affairs and Minister responsible for the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, and Minister Mandy Gull-Masty of Indigenous Services. Their skills, experience, and understanding of our Nations will be essential in advancing reconciliation, implementing Treaty and inherent rights, and addressing critical gaps. We also recognize Buckley Bélanger as Secretary of State (Rural Development), and we extend our congratulations to all Indigenous Members of Parliament across all parties elected to the new Parliament.
We welcome Minister Mandy Gull-Masty and acknowledge the appointment of Minister Rebecca Alty as Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, into their important roles. We also thank Minister Patty Hajdu, now Minister of Jobs and Families and responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario, and Minister Gary Anandasangaree, now Minister of Public Safety, for their work in advancing First Nations priorities. We will continue to engage with their departments to advance First Nations’ employment, economic development, and public safety.”
Several key ministers are returning to lead critical portfolios, including Dominic LeBlanc as President of the King’s Privy Council for Canada and Minister responsible for Canada-U.S. Trade, Intergovernmental Affairs, and One Canadian Economy, François-Philippe Champagne as Minister of Finance and National Revenue, and Sean Fraser as Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, as well as Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency.
“While we have seen progress over the past decade, there is still a long way to go,” added National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak. “We need immediate action on child and family services, housing and infrastructure, clean water, First Nations-led policing, and full implementation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls’ Calls for Justice, and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act.”
“First Nations expect this Cabinet to ensure sustained, meaningful investments that respect our jurisdiction, uphold the honour of the Crown, and contribute to building a stronger Canada for everyone,” concluded National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak. “We look forward to meeting with these ministers as soon as possible and working in true partnership to deliver meaningful results for our Nations.”
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The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is a national political and advocacy organization that works to advance the collective aspirations of First Nations individuals and communities across Canada on matters of national or international nature and concern.
For more information, please contact:
Cherish Francis
Press Secretary
National Chief’s Office
(343) 630-1372 (mobile)
[email protected]
Kelly Reid
Senior Communications Officer
Assembly of First Nations
(613) 292-0857 (mobile)
[email protected]