Indigenous commitments figure in Speech from the Throne

December 4, 2015. Governor General David Johnstone outlined commitments by the Liberal government to Indigenous people in the Speech from the Throne. Justin Trudeau pledged to undertake a renewed nation-to-nation relationship with Indigenous people during his election campaign, as well as undertake an inquiry into murdered and missing Indigenous women and girls; improve education for First Nations children; and “work cooperatively” to implement all 94 calls to action made by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Those commitments were renewed in the Speech from the Throne. On other fronts, the Speech committed to “fully engage” Indigenous people in reviewing and monitoring major resource development projects. As well, the Liberal government said it would not resort to omnibus bills, a move by the Conservative government which resulted in numerous demonstrations by First Nations people. In speaking with the CBC after the Speech was delivered, Assembly of First Nations National Chief Perry Bellegarde said the Speech was “a powerful statement.” He said when he and other Chiefs meet with Trudeau next Tuesday as part of the Special Chiefs Assembly in Gatineau they would discuss what steps would be taken to follow-up on promises.