Miramichi Bay Neguac MLA, Lisa Harris, seconded by Campbellton-Dalhousie MLA, Guy Arseneault, introduced a motion in the House today urging the Government to adopt the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People.

“We need to improve our relationship with the indigenous peoples of this province,” said the Liberal opposition critic for Aboriginal Affairs. “This motion provides a framework for the province to align itself with standards and protections outlined in the United Nations declaration.”

The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples establishes a universal framework of minimum standards for the survival, dignity and well-being of the indigenous peoples of the world and it elaborates on existing human rights standards and fundamental freedoms as they apply to the specific situation of indigenous peoples.

“This government created a minister for indigenous affairs, but has taken no concrete action to improve relations with indigenous peoples, and the Premier has previously disrespected the duty to consult by calling it vague,” said the MLA. “I truly hope they will recognize the importance of Indigenous rights and support this motion.”

The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2007, and adopted by Canada in 2016.