Valcourt says consensus with First Nations outweighs confrontation

OTTAWA – The federal minister of aboriginal affairs says he understands quite well why First Nations youth are rebelling, but says that as he travels the country to speak to aboriginal communities, he senses far more consensus with federal policies than confrontation.

In an interview with The Canadian Press, Bernard Valcourt says it’s no wonder there is frustration among aboriginal young people as they cope with overcrowding, poor health, high unemployment, violence and high rates of incarceration.

But Valcourt says his government has demonstrated a willingness to find practical solutions, starting with education — a priority most First Nations leaders agree with.

Valcourt was named minister in the aftermath of the Idle-No-More protests and liquids-only hunger protest of Attawapiskat Chief Theresa Spence last winter.

Activists are gearing up for more demonstrations and blockades this summer, but Valcourt says yelling at each other is not as useful as finding solutions.