The National Chief of the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples has announced her intention to resign her position.
Betty Ann Lavallee handed in her letter of resignation to the CAP board this morning.
“I’m very comfortable with our financial and administrative foundation as an organization and feel that we are fully ready for what the future brings” said the National Chief. “We are anticipating the Supreme Court of Canada’s decision on the Daniels case in the coming months – which finally will bring recognition to all Métis and non-status people across Canada – and I feel it is the right time for new leadership to take on the challenge of pursuing the implementation of that decision.”
Lavallee cited concern for the health of her husband and parents as the reason for her resignation.
“A person gives up a lot to serve in this kind of position and I have been happy to do it, in fact it has been a great privilege, but there comes a time to focus on family,” she added.
Kim Beaudin, President of Aboriginal Affairs Coalition of Saskatchewan, has been a vocal critic of Lavallee. He says this is a chance for the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples to move forward.
“I believe we have always needed to raise CAP to a higher standard, so hopefully we can get a new leader who can have a vision and understand what we are trying to do here,” said Beaudin.
Lavallee says Beaudin should continue to focus on the concerns of the organization rather than speak out to the press.
The National Chief will continue to serve in her role before an election to be held at the organization’s next Annual General Assembly in September of this year.