Statement from John G. Paul, Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nations Chiefs Secretariat:

Atlantic Policy Congress Expresses Condolences to Family and Friends of Lawrence Paul Dartmouth, Nova Scotia – All 37 APC Chiefs wish to express their deepest sympathy in the loss of a fellow leader Lawrence Paul of Millbrook First Nation. Chief Lawrence was a great innovator and helped create the focus on prosperity and economic development for the community of Millbrook and was a strong direct voice for all communities in the Atlantic region.

“Chief Lawrence will be remembered as one of our greatest Mi’kmaq leaders, one that advocated for our people and their economic prosperity” stated Chief Dean Vicaire, APC Co-Chair. “Chief Lawrence’s personal and direct approach to important issues will be missed”.

As a founder and long-time Co-Chair of the Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nations Chiefs Secretariat, a policy and advocacy organization, Chief Lawrence was the voice for all First Nations people in the region with both federal and provincial governments, the business community and the general public. Chief Lawrence never missed an opportunity to advocate on important issues facing First Nations and his community and regularly contributed to media outlets locally, regionally and nationally. His personal style and focused approach allowed him to achieve results and success for his community and our region.

“Chief Lawrence was a longtime colleague, mentor and very dear friend. He was a leader who spoke his mind and put his heart and soul into his work for the good of the entire Mi’kmaq Nation” says Chief Deborah Robinson, APC Co-Chair. “He set a very high standard for all of our Chiefs and our communities and will never be forgotten. His legacy will live on.”

Acting as the unified voice for 37 First Nation communities across Atlantic Canada & the Gaspe in Quebec, Chief Lawrence always held fellow politicians accountable, and made sure they were aware of APC’s perspectives on critical issues. Prior to the 1999 Supreme Court of Canada decision regarding Donald Marshall Junior, he worked closely with federal Ministers to get a peaceful resolution and an
outcome which would benefit all communities.

“May he move into the spirit world with pride based on all his life work and accomplishments which would have never happened if he did not play such an important role for decades as Chief. His leadership and friendship will be greatly missed” stated John G. Paul, Executive Director.