Congratulations to Charlie Watt Sr. on his election of President of Makivik Corporation

NEMASKA, EEYOU ISTCHEE (January 19, 2018) – The Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee)/Cree Nation Government would like to congratulate the Inuit of Nunavik on the election of their new President of the Makivik Corporation, Charlie Watt Sr. The Cree and the Inuit have an important common path as signatories of the first modern Treaty in Canada, a path which has been defined by many successes and many challenges. The Makivik Corporation remains a very important example of Indigenous people assuming responsibility and control over their own affairs and their future.

Grand Chief Dr. Abel Bosum wishes to express his gratitude to Mr. Jobie Tukkiapik, who as President of Makivik, achieved so much for his people especially in the areas of housing, the restructuring of Makivik Corporation, creation of Nuvviti Development Corporation, and being instrumental in bringing together Inuit organizations to work together in making the Parnasimautuk-Nunavik Plan a reality. The Cree Nation is grateful to Mr. Tukkiapik for his collaboration and allegiance in the perseverance of Indigenous Rights.

“As one on of the original negotiators and signatories of the James Bay Northern Quebec Agreement, Senator Charlie Watt Sr. holds a special place in the hearts of all Crees, as do all signatories of this important Agreement. The leadership of Senator Watt Sr. has inspired many young Indigenous boys and girls to imagine all the ways in which they can serve their communities.” – Grand Chief Dr. Abel Bosum

The Cree Nation Government is very optimistic that with the election of Charlie Watt Sr. combined with his special relationship to the James Bay Northern Quebec Agreement that the Cree and Inuit will continue to work together to ensure the continued evolution of self-governance and the advancement of our communities.