Blondin-Andrew pleased at appointment

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MP Ethel Blondin-Andrew was appointed Secretary of State for youth and training in Prime Minister Jean Chretien's new government Nov. 4.

Some Native leaders had hoped the Dene from the Northwest Territories would be appointed to head the Department of Indian Affairs and Northern Development.

Grand Chief of the Assembly of First Nations Ovide Mercredi has expressed his disappointment with the choice of Ron Irwin.

Mercredi and Chretien met in the week preceding the Oct. 25 vote to discuss Native issues. The two men also talked about appointing an Aboriginal to head Indian Affairs.

But Blondin-Andrew said she was pleased with the position and does not want other people to be disappointed.

"I'm just really happy to be considered as part of the Secretaries of State. I'm a rookie. I only got here in '88 and I'm really honored to be considered for anything, really."

Although her own portfolio will take precedence, Blondin-Andrew said Native affairs will remain a personal priority.

"I'm always the conduit for that as well. But my area is going to be for youth and training and I am really interested in pursuing those initiatives."

Getting the government up and running may take some time, she added. The Cabinet has not yet had the chance to meet as a political body.

"You've got to give us a bit of time, though, you know."

Blondin-Andrew's portfolio covers programs like apprenticeship training and the youth service corp.

Further details from her office in Ottawa were not available.