File photo of the Alberta Legislature building in Edmonton. (Lethbridge News Now)

By Justin Goulet/LethbridgeNewsNOW

New advisory group to focus on enhancing safety of Indigenous Peoples in Alberta

Apr 25, 2022 | 10:53 AM

EDMONTON – The Government of Alberta has announced a new Indigenous advisory group.

The Public Security Indigenous Advisory Group will provide input on public safety initiatives and policies for Indigenous Peoples in Alberta.

The group will be composed of leaders from Indigenous communities and organizations.

Justice Minister and Solicitor General Tyler Shandro said the provincial government is “committed to working with Indigenous Peoples to make sure they feel safe, secure and protected in Alberta.”

“It is critical that government policies and initiatives related to public safety and law enforcement address the changing realities and evolving needs of Indigenous communities.”

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He added, “this advisory group will allow us to better collaborate with our Indigenous partners and ensure our strategies align with their needs. Together, we can determine the best way to protect all of our communities.”

The Government of Alberta is recruiting up to 12 advisory group members, who may serve up to three-year terms.

Indigenous Relations Minister Rick Wilson said, “Indigenous Peoples in Alberta deserve safe communities to call home. We look to First Nation and Métis communities to help us find the best way forward.”

“Progress can only come through partnership and collaboration. The Public Security Indigenous Advisory Group creates a new way for Indigenous people and Alberta’s government to work together as partners in reconciliation.”

Those interested in participating can apply online through the provincial government website.

In-house legal counsel with the Woodland Cree First Nation Thomas Laboucan-Avirom said, “it is a step in the right direction to having this Indigenous advisory group. We live in a society where there are many different governments, ways of life and legal systems.”

“It is my hope this step will enable all parties to recognize the reality of the multi-juridical society we live in that can support these legal orders and laws and recognize our inherent sovereignty and rights as Nehiyaw peoples. This can be achieved by working together in a respectful way that this step will hopefully go on to prove.”

The Public Security Indigenous Advisory Group is expected to be in place by this fall.