Appointment of Mary Simon as Canada’s next Governor General draws applause and criticism

[ad_1]

OTTAWA Federal politicians, Indigenous groups and others were quick to speak out after Mary Simon was appointed Canada’s next governor general on Tuesday.

Here is some of what they said:

“This is an important day for our country as a whole and in particular for indigenous peoples. The role of the Governor General is important in unifying our country and bringing Canadians together. I wish him good luck in this role.

Federal Conservative Leader Erin O’Toole

–

I hope this appointment will facilitate an admission by the Crown and Canada of the abuses suffered by Indigenous peoples. “

Bloc Qubcois Leader Yves-Francois Blanchet

–

Ms. Simon brings her expertise and years of experience as an advocate to her new role. We also hope that today marks a new era for the dedicated staff who support the Governor General. They deserve the assurance that ‘they can do their jobs safely and with respect.

NDP Federal Leader Jagmeet Singh

–

“I offer my full and enthusiastic congratulations to Mary Simon on her appointment as Governor General of Canada. It is the greatest honor and responsibility our nation can bestow and I have no doubt that Ms. Simon will fulfill her many obligations with dignity and distinction.

Former Governor General Julie Payette

–

Canada has appointed a qualified diplomat to a position who can contribute to the process of reconciliation in which Canada is engaged. Its international contributions to the support and improvement of Indigenous human rights are significant.

Inuit Circumpolar Council of Canada President Monica Ell-Kanayuk

–

“As Aboriginal women, we are delighted with today’s announcement and proud that a woman (Inuk) is finally occupying this prestigious position. We must stress, however, that Ms. Simon is invited to assume the role of senior manager in what is still a colonial governance system.

Native Women’s Association of Canada

–

How can the Prime Minister of an officially bilingual country consider it appropriate to appoint a Governor General who will not be able to speak to more than 8 million francophone citizens of Canada?

Conservative Senator Claude Carignan

–

Given the importance for the Governor General to be independent from the Prime Minister and impartial, especially in a minority government situation, Prime Minister Trudeau should have involved the opposition parties in the choice of the Governor General.

Duff Conacher, co-founder of Democracy Watch

–

This is a new chapter in Canada’s relationship with Inuit, First Nations and Métis. Having an Aboriginal person as the representative of the Crown in Canada sends a strong message to the nation and to the international community. This comes at an important time in our history as we collectively work for reconciliation.

Pita Adam, President of the Makivik Corporation

This report by The Canadian Press was first published on July 6, 2021.

The Canadian Press

[ad_2]