Assembly of First Nations National Chief Commends Collaborative Steps Toward First Nations Health Governance
OTTAWA, Oct. 13, 2011 - Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo today joined BC First Nation leadership, provincial and federal government representatives to celebrate steps toward advancement in First Nations health governance.
"Today we celebrate the steps we can make together toward change based on effective collaboration and respectful partnerships," said AFN National Chief Shawn Atleo. "The tripartite for First Nation health governance is one example of how support for First Nation-driven and supported approaches can lead to a better day for our peoples. The willingness of all parties - First Nation leaders, the provincial and federal governments - shows us how we can work together in mutual respect for better outcomes for our peoples."
National Chief Atleo joined BC Chiefs, the Honourable federal Minister of Health Leona Aglukkaq and the Honourable provincial Minister of Health Michael de Jong in Vancouver today.
"The signing of the Tripartite Framework Agreement is truly a milestone for First Nations in British Columbia as our Nations look to having increased authority over health care and health care delivery in BC," said AFN BC Regional Chief Jody Wilson-Raybould. "As a key pillar of Building on OUR Success plan, "individual health" and community-driven and Nation-based initiatives are imperative to achieving healthy Nations. We collectively have before us an incredible opportunity to achieve significant improvements in the health status for all First Nation peoples."
"Today's ceremonies mark the conclusion of three years of hard work and negotiations among all three parties to produce a positive outcome for the First Nations of British Columbia, concluded Grand Chief Doug Kelly who Chaired this initiative. He added "this framework sets the stage for the transfer of the Pacific Region of First Nations Health Branch to a First Nations Health Authority. The signing of this agreement also launches a new phase of this work which will be challenging, exciting, and fruitful for our people".
The Tripartite Framework Agreement on First Nations Health Governance is a ground-breaking document, setting a framework for increased First Nations governance over health based on a First Nation definition of health and wellness. It builds on principles and approaches that will better ensure partners work in new collaborative ways to discuss transforming health services to First Nations citizens and communities. | 
