Ottawa, ON – The Hon. Pierre Poilievre, Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada, released the following statement on Nunavut Day:
“Canada’s north is a source of inspiration for people around the world who appreciate its natural and cultural beauty. On Nunavut Day, Nunavummiut and fellow Canadians from coast to coast to coast come together to celebrate an important part of our northern story.
“The adoption of the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement Act – thirty-two years ago today – was a critical step towards Nunavut joining Confederation at the cusp of the twenty-first century.
“In April 1993, at the signing of the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement, Prime Minister Brian Mulroney stated that the new arrangement represented a partnership ‘not only between the Government of Canada and the future Government of Nunavut but between aboriginal and non-aboriginal Canadians.’
“Sadly, Ottawa’s relationship with Inuit and other Indigenous Peoples has often been defined by paternalism rather than by partnership. But Mulroney’s hopeful words speak to the ideals at the heart of Nunavut’s promise.
“On behalf of Canada’s Common Sense Conservatives, I want to wish Nunavummiut and everyone celebrating a very happy Nunavut Day!”