August 29, 2001
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Jean Chrétien today announced the appointment of Phil Fontaine as Chief Commissioner of the Indian Claims Commission, effective immediately.

"I am very pleased that Mr. Fontaine has agreed to take on the important role of

Chief Commissioner," said the Prime Minister. "I know that his extensive experience with, and long-time devotion to, First Nations issues will serve him well in leading the Commission."

The Prime Minister also announced that Daniel Bellegarde and James Prentice have stepped down as Interim Co-Chairs of the Commission, positions they have held since March 1994. Both Messrs. Bellegarde and Prentice have agreed to continue with the Commission as Commissioners. On behalf of all Canadians, the Prime Minister took the opportunity to thank Messrs. Bellegarde and Prentice for their excellent stewardship of the Commission over the past seven years, for their dedication and professionalism, and for their continued commitment to the Commission and its work.

Mr. Fontaine has worked for more than 20 years on behalf of First Nations, both as an elected leader and in a number of senior positions in the federal and First Nations’ governments. He served as National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations for three years until July 2000, and previously served as Grand Chief of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs. Before serving as Grand Chief, Mr. Fontaine represented Manitoba at the Assembly of First Nations as Vice-Chief. His experience with the federal Public Service includes the positions of Director General of the Yukon Region of the Department of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Deputy Coordinator of the Native Economic Development Program. Mr. Fontaine is a recipient of the 1996 National Aboriginal Achievement Award, in recognition of his community service record. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Political Studies from the University of Manitoba.

The Indian Claims Commission was established by the Government of Canada in 1991. It is an independent body with authority to hold public inquiries into land claims made by First Nations that have been rejected by the Government of Canada. The Commission also provides mediation to help First Nations and government, at any stage in negotiations, reach claim settlements. The Commission has a staff of approximately 40 people, 50 per cent of whom are aboriginal.

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