The Honourable Danny Williams, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, today recognized National Aboriginal Day as leaders of national Aboriginal women�s organizations meet in Corner Brook for a National Aboriginal Women�s Summit.

"On behalf of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, I would like to take this opportunity to extend best wishes to Aboriginal people throughout the province and across the country," said Premier Williams. "National Aboriginal Day 2007 is a very special one for this province as it coincides with the National Aboriginal Women�s Summit being held in Corner Brook. It is an honour to co-host this event with President Bev Jacobs and so many Aboriginal people, particularly on a day of great significance to Aboriginal communities across Canada."

National Aboriginal Day is devoted to celebrating and reflecting upon the traditions, cultures and history of all Aboriginal peoples throughout Canada.

"Aboriginal peoples, communities and organizations in Newfoundland and Labrador make a very significant contribution to this province and country, as do all Aboriginal groups in provinces and territories across Canada," said the Honourable Tom Rideout, Minister Responsible for Aboriginal Affairs. "It is vital that we take the opportunity to acknowledge these contributions and celebrate the successes and the unique history of these individuals. To that end, we are pleased to join with all jurisdictions throughout Canada in recognizing this very significant occasion."

Premier Williams noted that the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has championed the issues of Aboriginal peoples in this province and indeed throughout the country. Some accomplishments include this week�s National Aboriginal Women�s Summit, the completion of the Labrador Inuit Land Claims Agreement and the province�s efforts toward the creation of the reserve at Sheshatshiu. The Premier added that he and his government played a leading role in securing the $5.1 billion Kelowna Accord in 2005 and have since challenged the federal government to live up to this agreement.

Premier Williams reiterated the significance of the recently announced Northern Strategic Plan for Labrador and the benefits of that investment for Aboriginal communities. These benefits include the $4 million contribution for the construction of a new school at Sheshatshiu, the $1.6 million annual electricity rebate for home owners using diesel-generated power in isolated communities along the Labrador coast and the $1.24 million increase to the Medical Transportation Program that will assist residents in isolated communities that incur significant travel costs in order receive medical services.

"Today we also recognize the valued working relationship that our government enjoys with the Aboriginal peoples of our province, and the significant accomplishments that have accrued in light of this," continued the Premier. "We will continue to work with all Aboriginal groups in Newfoundland and Labrador, as well as our provincial, territorial and federal counterparts throughout the country, as we move to build upon our past successes and work toward securing a bright, prosperous future for our Aboriginal communities."

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2007 06 21                                                       9:15 a.m.