Statement

From the Prime Minister's Web Site (http://www.pm.gc.ca/)

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STATEMENT BY THE PRIME MINISTER ON NATIONAL ABORIGINAL DAY

June 20, 2008
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement on National Aboriginal Day:

"June 21st is a day for all Canadians to celebrate the cultures of Aboriginal people whether they are First Nations, Métis or Inuit. This year marks 400 years of common history between Aboriginal people and the first settlers.

"Together, we have made significant progress and have achieved concrete results on a range of Aboriginal issues, including land claims, education, housing, child and family services, safe drinking water, economic opportunity and the extension of human rights protection to First Nations individuals on reserve.

"In addition, this year Canada has marked two important milestones in the resolution of the sad legacy of the Indian Residential Schools System. On June 1st, the Indian Residential Schools Truth and Reconciliation Commission was launched and on June 11th, I stood in the House Commons and offered an historic formal apology to former students on behalf of the Government of Canada and all Canadians.

"As we mark National Aboriginal Day, the Government of Canada reaffirms its commitment to continue working with Aboriginal leaders to improve the lives of Aboriginal people across the country."

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The Prime Minister's Office - Communications
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