Eric Melillo at the Indigenous and Northern Affairs Committee

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I want to thank all of the individuals for joining us to talk about this important legislation.

I want to start by also offering my condolences to Chief Kennedy on the passing of Grand Chief Merrick. I know it came as a shock for many people right across the country, including me. I was actually planning to meet with her just around that time, so it came as quite a shock.

I want to thank you for your work here in the interim and for being here to ensure that the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs does have a voice during this important discussion.

I'll start with you, if I can, Chief Kennedy.

I'm curious if you can describe the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs' involvement during the consultation process in the development of this bill.