Statement by the Prime Minister
March 15, 2000
Ottawa, Ontario
Prime Minister Jean Chrétien today joined the Squamish Nation in paying
tribute to Chief Joe Mathias:
"The Squamish people - and all Canadians - have lost a truly
remarkable leader. Chief Mathias was a person of tremendous insight, modesty and
forbearance. He counselled a practical and solutions-oriented approach to the
treaty process for his own and all Aboriginal people of British Columbia. And he
remained focused on claiming the rightful place of Aboriginal Canadians as full
partners in our nation.
His vision remains to be fully realized. But regardless of his untimely
death, the eloquence, passion and dignity with which he advanced it live on as
an inspiration that will, I am confident, make it reality.
On behalf of the people of Canada, I express my deep condolences to his
family, his friends, and the entire Squamish Nation.
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PMO Press Office: (613) 957-5555
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