Premier Christy Clark issued the following statement to mark National Aboriginal Day:

"June 21, National Aboriginal Day, is an important day in British Columbia and across Canada. Today, we celebrate the heritage, cultures and contributions of First Nations, Métis and Inuit people.

"Aboriginal people are a vital part of B.C.'s economy and our culture. Because Aboriginal youth represent the fastest-growing demographic in our province, the importance of Aboriginal people in B.C. will only grow in the years ahead. They will play a key role in maintaining the province's strength and in creating an even brighter future for all British Columbians.

"We are assisting Aboriginal youth to attain the skills and training to fully participate in our growing economy and help meet our skilled labour demands in the coming decade. That's why today, Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Minister Mary Polak and Advanced Education Minister Naomi Yamamoto announced a new framework and action plan and a $16.2-million investment to help Aboriginal post-secondary students succeed.

"In business, culture, art and entrepreneurship, Aboriginal people enrich our lives every day, and today is a day to celebrate those contributions."