Thank you very much, Mr. Chair.
First of all, I would like to thank each and every person who has testified before us since the beginning of the day. I’m only here as a substitute, but I can tell you that it’s very informative. I’m learning a lot about your reality and systemic racism in aboriginal and Inuit communities. Thank you very much.
My first question is for Chief Picard.
The Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness is now promising legislation that would make aboriginal policing an essential service. There has been a lot of talk since this morning about the need to work together to combat systemic racism. If I am not mistaken, the chiefs of the Assembly of First Nations passed at least one resolution in 2018 to impress upon the federal government the importance of considering first nations policing as an essential service and of providing adequate funding and support, similar to what other police forces across the country receive.
Chief Picard, have you initiated discussions with the government on this bill promised by Minister Blair?