The Honourable Tony Wakeham, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable Lela Evans, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, today met with Grand Chief Jodie Ashini in her new role, as well as Deputy Grand Chief John Nui of the Innu Nation, in the spirit of building a positive relationship going forward.

The Innu Nation has raised concerns about how their archaeological record has been interpreted. In response to the Innu’s concern, Premier Wakeham has committed to completing an independent, comprehensive audit of all Provincial Archaeology Office holdings to identify and assess all research completed in the province regarding the Innu’s presence in Labrador. In addition, the Premier confirmed that the Grand Chief will be provided with complete access to materials held by the Provincial Archaeology Office.

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“Our government values the Innu Nation, and Grand Chief Ashini is a passionate advocate for her people. We are committed to a relationship that is mutually respectful and beneficial.”
Honourable Tony Wakeham
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

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