Tabling of the fifth annual report since the coming into force of An Act to authorize the communication of personal information to the families of Indigenous children who went missing or died after being admitted to an institution
Press Release
WENDAKE, QC, April 2, 2026 – The Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador (AFNQL) and the First Nations of Quebec and Labrador Health and Social Services Commission (FNQLHSSC) would like to highlight all the work accomplished over the past five years by the Association Awacak, Family Support Branch of the Secrétariat aux relations avec les Premières Nations et les Inuit. In particular, they wish to emphasize the resilience and determination of families affected by the disappearance – to date – of more than 220 children.
“Recognizing the truth, honouring the memory of children and supporting families in their search for justice are a collective duty and essential to the healing of our families. Efforts must be sustained to bring about lasting changes in public services, grounded in respect, justice and equity for First Nations and Inuit in Quebec,” said Francis Verreault-Paul, AFNQL Chief.
Despite the efforts made since the act came into force, this figure is constantly increasing and reflects an important part of our history… a history whose facts deserve to be better known.
“Every step taken by families, driven by courage and resilience, underscores the urgent need to acknowledge past injustices in order to transform current systems and build a future where every child is protected and every voice is heard,” concludes Derek Montour, President of the Board of Directors of the FNQLHSSC.
About the AFNQL
The AFNQL is the political organization that brings together 43 Chiefs of the First Nations in Quebec and Labrador.
About the FNQLHSSC
The FNQLHSSC is a non-profit organization that supports Quebec First Nations in achieving their objectives in terms of health, wellness, culture, and self-determination.
INFORMATION : Gabrielle Lavigne-Couture, AFNQL, Political Communications Advisor, glavigne-couture@apnql.com, 418-842-5020, ext. 4007 – www.apnql.com; Annie Brisson-Proulx, FNQLHSSC, Communications Advisor, annie.brisson-proulx@cssspnql.com, 418-842-1540, ext. 2304 – www.cssspnql.com
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