AFN Chief Makes Call For Inquiry Into Pickton Case

AFN Chief Makes Call For Inquiry Into Pickton Case

Monday, August 16, 2010 at 12:42

Assembly of First Nations National Chief Shawn Atleo is calling for a public inquiry into the handling of the Robert Pickton investigation.

Atleo says it must be done to bring justice for the 20 women who lost their lives.

He says many of the victims were Aboriginal women, adding the inquiry should include the participation of Aboriginal people.

In response to those who are saying that the cost of an inquiry would be too high, Atleo says: “. . . you cannot put a value on a human life. The benefits of closure and prevention that will result from an inquiry outweigh any other costs.”

The AFN also says it has made the issue of missing and murdered women a national priority.

Atleo says a public inquiry into the handling of the Pickton investigation “would be an important part of this process and signal a commitment to working together to respect and protect First Nations and Aboriginal women”.