CHAPLEAU CREE FIRST NATION: Chiefs and proxies from Nishnawbe Aski Nation’s (NAN) 49 First Nations re-elected Alvin Fiddler, of Muskrat Dam First Nation, as Grand Chief during the XXXVII Keewaywin Conference today.
“I am honoured to be re-elected as Grand Chief and I thank our Chiefs for giving me another strong mandate. I would also like to thank my wife Tesa and our two daughters, Allison and Lynette, for their continued love and support,” said Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler. “I look forward to working with my colleagues on the Executive Council and the Chiefs to advance our mandates to improve the lives of the people of Nishnawbe Aski.”
Priorities for the newly-elected Executive Council are to work with the NAN First Nations to develop a NAN-wide housing strategy, create an economic base for communities, and dismantle colonial legislation like the Indian Act while continuing to transform health, education and child welfare services. The Grand Chief is also committed to ensuring that the new Ontario government honours existing agreements, including resource revenue sharing, with NAN First Nations.
Alvin Fiddler was first elected Grand Chief in 2015 and served three terms as Deputy Grand Chief (2003-2006, 2006-2009, 2012-2015). He was elected along with three Deputy Grand Chiefs who are responsible for specific portfolios including health, education, social services and governance.
Elected as Deputy Grand Chief for Nishnawbe Aski Nation are:
- Jason Smallboy, Moose Cree First Nation (re-elected)
- Derek Fox, Bearskin Lake First Nation (re-elected)
- Walter Naveau, Mattagami First Nation
The Grand Chief and Deputy Grand Chiefs were sworn into office immediately for a three-year term. Keewaywin (August 14-16) continues Thursday.
Election results: www.nanelection.ca
Webcast: www.nan.on.ca/article/nan-xxxvii-keewaywin-conference-20386.asp
