Treaty Commission Pays Tribute to Jack Layton

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire - Aug. 24, 2011) - The Treaty Commission is joining with millions of Canadians in remembering and paying tribute to Jack Layton.

Commissioners took a few moments at their regular Treaty Commission meeting to remember Mr. Layton as a great community builder.

"He was a great Canadian whose hope and optimism for this country will continue to inspire many people to get involved in public life," said Sophie Pierre, chief commissioner.

Commissioners, like so many Canadians, were touched by Mr. Layton's letter that was penned in the last days of his life.

Mr. Layton's message should give us all pause. He wrote of "the unfairness of an economy that excludes so many from our collective wealth and the changes necessary to build a more inclusive and generous Canada...a country of greater equality, justice and opportunity."

Commissioners share Mr. Layton's view that we can build a prosperous economy and a society that shares its benefits more fairly. He will be greatly missed.

The Treaty Commission is the independent body responsible for overseeing treaty negotiations among the governments of Canada, BC and First Nations in BC. It has three roles: facilitation, funding, and public information and education. For more information please visit www.bctreaty.ca.