RCMP report on murdered and missing women not a substitute for national inquiry, says First Nations advocate

'We still need a national inquiry; now more than ever.'

That seems to be the unanimous message coming from First Nations groups following the release of a comprehensive RCMP review of Canada's murdered and missing aboriginal women.

With a series of info-graphics, the RCMP painted a grim picture noting that 1,181 aboriginal women have gone missing or have been murdered since 1980.

The RCMP say that the information in the report — derived from various sources — will be used to focus resources within high-risk communities and to cooperatively develop violence prevention plans.

Ernie Crey, whose missing sister's DNA was found on serial killer Willie Pickton's pig farm in Port Coquitlam, says the RCMP report is helpful but not a substitute for a national inquiry.

"The RCMP report does not obviate need for a national inquiry into missing and murdered Aboriginal women," he told Yahoo Canada News.

"The report actually presents data that points in the direction of the need for an inquiry. More information is needed to better inform both Ottawa and [the provinces] on how to craft policies and programs to address violence against women and reduce incidents of murder and disappearances."

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The Assembly of First Nations, echoed Crey's comment in a statement released on Friday afternoon.

"Today’s RCMP report reaffirms the magnitude of the crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women in Canada and clearly indicates the urgent need for action by many different players, including First Nations, governments, police services and others," AFN Regional Chief Cameron Alexis said

"A national shame and a national tragedy, Indigenous women are vastly over-represented in the numbers of missing and murdered women and girls.

"We are demanding immediate action based on these concrete facts and numbers so that not one more woman or girl is victimized and that no family member has to spend another day without answers. Ending violence against Indigenous women is an urgent priority for First Nations across the country and today’s report should compel all Canadians and the federal government to support immediate action. The AFN continues the call for a coordinated National Action Plan, including a National Public Commission of Inquiry, as well as immediate direct investments in shelters and preventative support measures to keep the most vulnerable of our citizens safe and secure."

[ Related: Little improved for Canada's First Nation communities in ten years: UN Rapporteur ]

Despite the pressure from First Nations groups, the Harper government remains resolute about not calling an inquiry.

"This comprehensive study will help further inform the actions the government is taking in our efforts to keep our streets and communities safe."," Justice Minister Peter MacKay said in a statement.

"Some 40 studies have already been completed over the years dealing with the issue of missing and murdered aboriginal women. We must continue to take concrete action now, not just continue to study the issue."

It seems both sides — those calling for an inquiry and and the Harper government — aren't budging from their positions.

(Photo courtesy of The Canadian Press)

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