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BARRHEAD/WESTLOCK - Peace River-Westlock MP Arnold Viersen has been re-appointed as a member of the standing committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs, a role he had previously held from 2015 to 2021.
Over the past two years, Viersen had served as vice-chair for the subcommittee on International Human Rghts.
“It’s great to be back on the Indigenous and Northern Affairs committee (INAN),” Viersen said in a release. “As an MP representing a large rural riding with 14 First Nation and three Métis Settelments, this is an important opportunity to represent the interests of northern Canadians.”
Viersen said he was honoured to spend the last two years on the human rights subcommittee advocating for the protection of inalienable rights amongst vulnerable populations around the world, including the millions affected by the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Ethiopia and Christians in Nigeria facing persecution.
A release from Viersen's office noted the standing committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs met Sept. 26 to appoint Liberal MP John Aldag as chair.
The first item on the committee’s agenda will be reviewing Bill C-53, An act respecting the recognition of certain Métis governments.
The bill, which received first reading June 21, provides a framework for the implementation of self-government treaties between the Government of Canada and the Métis Nations of Alberta, Ontario and Saskatchewan.
“The Liberal government has been stalling on this file for several years. Conservatives will do our jobs and give this legislation the attention and careful consideration it deserves. We support a consultation process that includes all affected Métis and First Nations,” said Viersen.
