July 17, 2000

The Aboriginal Justice Implementation Commission (AJIC) has delivered its second quarterly report to the provincial government.

The report, which did not contain recommendations, stated the AJIC is continuing its work in priority areas--including child welfare, justice, Aboriginal rights and Metis issues--in order to "design recommendations that can be implemented in a practical, efficient and cost effective manner."

The AJIC, led by commissioners Paul Chartrand and Wendy Whitecloud, was established last fall to review the report of the Aboriginal Justice Inquiry, identify priority areas for government action and make practical recommendations for improving justice programs and services for First Nations and Metis people in Manitoba.

"I would like to thank the members of the commission for their report," said Attorney General Gord Mackintosh. "While we cannot undo the many years of government inaction, we were pleased to have acted on the recommendations of the AJIC's first quarterly report and look forward to continuing to work with the commission."

The AJIC's first quarterly report made four recommendations including renouncing the province's half-interest in minerals on reserves, entering into agreements for child and family services that are developed and operated by Aboriginal communities, amending the Interpretation Act of Manitoba to ensure all legislation is interpreted subject to Aboriginal and treaty rights, and initiating discussions with the Manitoba Metis Federation on a range of Metis issues.

"The work of the AJIC is vital to the ongoing efforts to restore faith in Manitoba's justice system," added Eric Robinson, minister of Aboriginal and northern affairs.

Copies of the second quarterly report of the AJIC are available at the AJIC office, 440-500 Portage Ave., and on the commission's Web site at www.ajic.mb.ca.