Premiers and National Aboriginal Leaders Meet to Advance National Priorities

Premier Darrell Dexter thanked premiers and leaders of Canada's five national Aboriginal organizations for continued collaboration on education, economic development and reducing violence against Aboriginal women and girls today, July 25.

Premier Dexter chaired the sixth annual meeting of premiers and national Aboriginal leaders in Lunenburg.

"These are national priorities that require a collective commitment to action from all governments and Aboriginal organizations," said Premier Dexter. "Premiers and leaders are building relationships that will allow us to make real progress on issues that affect all Canadians."

Manitoba Premier Greg Selinger announced today that his province will host the third National Aboriginal Women's Summit this fall.

Nova Scotia continues to make progress in priority areas with the Mi'kmaq and provincial Aboriginal organizations. The Mi'kmaq model of education, for example, is recognized as a leading practice across the country.

Nova Scotia's collaborative efforts with the Mi'kmaq to enhance economic opportunity, particularly in the renewable energy sector, is taking hold. The province's Domestic Violence Action Plan is helping to reduce violence in First Nation communities.

Following the meeting between Canada's premiers and national Aboriginal leaders, Premier Dexter will chair the Council of the Federation meetings on July 26 and 27 in Halifax.