(March 21, 2025 – Unceded Algonquin Territory, Ottawa) – Following her meeting earlier this week with the Official Opposition Leader Pierre Poilievre, Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak met today with Prime Minister Mark Carney in Ottawa.
“In addition to congratulating Prime Minister Carney on his new role, I expressed that First Nations expect all federal parties, the next government, and a new Parliament to work with us to ensure a secure, safe, and prosperous country for First Nations and all Canadians,” said National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak. “Every First Nation is determined to foster a new relationship with the Crown, one that is built on mutual respect, shared responsibility, and full implementation of First Nations’ Treaty rights, inherent rights, title, and jurisdiction.”
The National Chief raised several key priorities during the meeting, including the need for First Nations to be fully included in decisions on trade and border mobility, and for long-term investments to close the infrastructure gap that will strengthen communities and support Canada’s economic growth.
In her meeting with Mr. Poilievre earlier in the week, the National Chief discussed a number of issues, including justice and policing, and Mr. Poilievre expressed a commitment toward investments for Indigenous policing.
National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak is also reaching out to other federal party leaders, including NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh and Bloc Québécois Leader Yves-François Blanchet. As in past elections, the AFN will provide each party with a First Nations priorities document outlining key issues identified by the First Nations-in-Assembly, including housing, infrastructure, clean drinking water, and reconciliation.
“With the 10-year anniversary of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action approaching, we have an opportunity to measure progress towards reconciliation and hold all parties accountable to Survivors, families and First Nations across Canada,” concluded National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak. “That includes systemic reform of policing and justice. We also need a commitment to fix Jordan’s Principle. Our most vulnerable children are being denied access to products, services and supports they need. We welcome investments from Prime Minister Carney on Jordan’s Principle as well as the Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program. We look forward to seeing additional clear commitments from all parties in the weeks ahead.”
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The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is a national 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
Office of the National Chief
(343) 630-1372 (mobile)
[email protected]
Kelly Reid
Senior Communications Officer
Assembly of First Nations
(613) 292-0857 (mobile)
[email protected]