FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
February 22, 2010

Toronto, ON – The Chiefs of Ontario office is coordinating a three day First Nations Health Forum commencing February 23, 2010 to discuss the health challenges within First Nations communities in Ontario as well to focus on the development of solutions.

The Health Forum is expected to attract a diverse audience from First Nations Chiefs, community health workers, and policy and program officers from First Nations and government. Ontario Regional Chief Angus Toulouse, along with health portfolio lead for the Chiefs of Ontario Grand Chief Stan Beardy of the Nishinawbe-Aski Nation, will both address the Health Forum on the opening day. Ontario Minister of Health and Long Term Care, Deb Matthews, will also address the Health Forum on the first day of the meeting.

“This meeting provides a valuable and much-needed forum to discuss health challenges in First Nations communities. We need to work together and we need to ensure that both levels of government are engaged and committed to working in collaboration with First Nations with the objective being to find solutions that will be effective for First Nations people and communities” stated Ontario Regional Chief Angus Toulouse.

Key topics that will be addressed over the course of the three day meeting include prescription drug abuse, health promotion, injury prevention and public health.

For more information or to arrange an interview please contact:

For more information please contact:
Pam Hunter
Ph: 416-522-0706 / phunter[at]coo.org