Ottawa, ON – The Hon. Pierre Poilievre, Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada and the Official Opposition, released the following statement on International Inuit Day:

“Today, we celebrate the incredible people who give the vast and majestic tundra its human face. Here in Canada and around the world, Inuit are proud of the culture and customs they have passed down for generations.

“As northern issues become more relevant than ever, Conservatives know that those who have lived, governed and thrived there since time immemorial should have a real say in its future.

“More than three decades after Prime Minister Brian Mulroney signed the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement, we are committed to ending a paternalistic, big-government approach in favour of real partnership with Inuit communities.

“That includes respecting customs like the seal hunt – an age-old tradition which Ottawa busybodies have no right to ban.

“On behalf of all my colleagues, I want to wish all those celebrating a very happy International Inuit Day!”