News Release

1997-06
February 7, 1997

Assembly of First Nations and Health Canada announce national aboriginal youth and elders conference

OTTAWA - Assembly of First Nations National Chief, Ovide Mercredi, and Health Minister David C. Dingwall today announced that the National Youth and Elders Conference, "Inclusion, Empowerment and Healing" will be held February 9 to 11, 1997 at the Halifax World Trade and Convention Centre.

The conference, organized by the Assembly of First Nations, will provide approximately 800 youth and elders from across the country with an opportunity to discuss and identify issues of concern and gaps in service for youth. Gathering in workshops, participants will develop recommendations for a national action plan for First Nations youth with an emphasis on mental health issues, such as suicide, family violence, and the long-term effects of residential schools.

On the final day, Tuesday, February 11, 1997, Minister Dingwall, Chief Mercredi and Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) Grand Chief, Charles Fox have been invited to participate in a rountable discussion with youth and elders.

"Focusing on our youth, with the guidance of our elders, to ensure the healing of our nations is one of our strongest strategies at this time to progress as a people. I look forward to this important event" stated Chief Mercredi.

"This conference is a clear indication of the growing importance of youth health issues," said Minister Dingwall. "It provides me with an important opportunity to hear how my department and our government can strengthen and renew our health care partnerships with the Assembly of First Nations, community leaders and others," added Minister Dingwall. Health Canada provided $204,300 in funding for the Youth and Elders Conference. Funding for this initiative was provided for in the March 1996 federal budget and is therefore built into the existing fiscal framework. This announcement is an example of how this government is prioritizing its spending so that it can better serve Canadians by making efficient use of their tax dollars.

Information:
Jean La Rose
Assembly of First Nations
(613) 241-6789

Monette Haché
Health Canada
(613) 957-1803