Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs
June 15, 2007

Minister Pays Tribute to Apinam Pone

The Honourable Tom Rideout, Minister Responsible for Aboriginal Affairs, today expressed his condolences, on behalf of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, to the family and friends of Apinam Pone, who passed away earlier this week in St. John�s.

�Apinam was a tremendous individual who made significant contributions to the administration of justice in our province, particularly in Labrador,� said Minister Rideout. �He was a strong advocate for the Innu Nation and represented his people with great passion in the areas of Aboriginal justice, alternative dispute resolution and healing.  He was committed to ensuring that the justice system operated fairly and effectively, and he followed through on these commitments time and time again.�

The Honourable John Hickey, Minister Responsible for Labrador Affairs said, �As someone who overcame his battle with addictions, Apinam endeavoured to help others with their fight.  He worked tirelessly in supporting his people and making their communities a better place to live.  He was a family man who loved the outdoors and will be sadly missed by family and the Innu community.  I offer my sincere and heartfelt condolences to Apinam�s family and to the Innu community on the loss of this exceptional man.�

Mr. Pone�s commitment to his people and to the justice system has been recognized on numerous occasions.  He was presented with the first ever Certificate of Merit by the Law Society of Newfoundland and Labrador for having made such a substantial contribution to the administration of justice.

�In Apinam�s passing, the Innu Nation, and the justice system in our province, has lost a tireless worker and honoured friend,� continued Minister Rideout.  �The thoughts and prayers of the people of Newfoundland and Labrador are with Apinam�s family and the Innu people of Labrador at this difficult time.�

-30-

Media contact:
Lori Lee Oates
Director of Communications
Aboriginal Affairs
709-729-3733, 690-8403
oatesll@gov.nl.ca

2007 06 15                                                        2:55 p.m.