Harper won’t attend AFN open forum

October 2, 2015. Conservative leader Stephen Harper has indicated he will not participate in the all-forum federal leaders’ debate to be hosted by the Assembly of First Nations Oct. 7, in Enoch. Now, NDP Leader Thomas Mulcair says his presence is contingent on the Conservative leader being there. "This debate is a key opportunity for the party leaders to explain how their government would work to close the gap in the quality of life between First Nations and Canada," said National Chief Perry Bellegarde. "We need a full discussion on First Nations priorities because our priorities are Canada's priorities…. First Nations people and all Canadians deserve to hear where the party leaders stand on the issues that affect all of us."