Le Lézard
Subjects: LEG, NTA, AVO, CPG

Family Caregivers Bill: The AFNQL and the FNQLHSSC Appeal to Minister Blais' Listening and Sensitivity


WENDAKE, QC, June 12, 2020 /CNW Telbec/ - The Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador (AFNQL) and the First Nations of Quebec and Labrador Health and Social Services Commission (FNQLHSSC) welcome the Bill on the recognition of caregivers tabled Thursday by the Minister Responsible for Seniors and Informal Caregivers, Marguerite Blais. It is high time that the valuable contribution of caregivers be recognized and that they be assisted and equipped in the support they provide to their loved ones.

Bill 56, which aims to be inclusive and adapted to all realities, provides for the creation of a national policy to support, and officially recognize family caregivers. It also provides for the creation of a committee of partners and an observatory for informal caregiving. For the time being, no seat has been reserved for a First Nations member within these entities. The AFNQL and the FNQLHSSC are of the opinion that tangible means must be implemented in order to make the voice of First Nations resonate in each of the stages of the Bill as well as in the development of the policy that will result from it. It is necessary to ensure an equitable offer of services that goes well beyond legal jurisdictions. The health and well-being of our populations is at stake.

"With Bill 61 on Quebec's economic recovery, the issues raised by the First Nations have, once again, been put on the back burner without recognition of their fundamental rights. The Government of Quebec did not bother to consult us prior to its Bill and ignored our concerns. This time, we are counting on Minister Blais who, notwithstanding the political party, has always been sensitive to the reality of the First Nations. We are now appealing to her listening skills and her spirit of collaboration to do things differently," said AFNQL Chief Ghislain Picard.

"This legislation amends the Act respecting health services and social services by granting the Minister of Health and Social Services the power to inspect private residences for seniors and accommodation for vulnerable persons. It will be essential that Quebec recognizes the governance and jurisdiction of our local governments to manage their own institutions and that the government works in concert with them ", concluded Derek Montour, President of the Board of Directors of the FNQLHSSC.

About the AFNQL
The Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador is the political organization which regroups 43 Chiefs of First Nations in Quebec and in Labrador.  Follow the AFNQL on Twitter @APNQL.

About de FNQLHSSC
The FNQLHSSC's mission is to accompany Quebec First Nations in achieving their health, wellness, culture and self-determination goals.

SOURCE Assembly of First Nations of Quebec and Labrador



News published on and distributed by: