AFN National Chief Perry Bellegarde says Thursday night’s federal party leaders debate mostly ignored First Nations economic issues.
Bellegarde says the debate was a clear opportunity for all the leaders to explain their vision and plans for closing the gap in the quality of life between First Nations people and Canadians.
However, he says only Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau made an effort to mention First Nations economic issues.
Earlier this month, Bellegarde released a plan called “Closing the Gap: 2015 Federal Election Priorities for First Nations and Canada.”
The National Chief has stated that closing the gap will add $400 billion to the country’s economy, and save $115 billion in social spending.
Bellegarde says he will be calling on all party leaders to provide a full and clear response to the plan.
The Canadian Press