Minister's biography

 The Honourable Peter Penashue


 Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs
 President of the Queen's Privy Council for Canada

Peter Penashue was first elected to the House of Commons in May 2011 and is the first Innu Member of Parliament.

Mr. Penashue has played a number of leadership roles in his community. He held positions with the Band Council and the Naskapi Montagnais Innu, including Land Claims Director, Executive Director and Financial Administrator. At the age of 26, Mr. Penashue was elected President of the Innu Nation. He also served as Grand Chief from 1990 to 1997 and from 1999 to 2004, and as Deputy Grand Chief from 2007 to 2010. He is also a successful entrepreneur.

Mr. Penashue has been recognized as one of the leading spokespersons for Innu rights and interests. He contributed to the recognition of Innu rights, the evolution of relationships with the federal and provincial governments, and the negotiation of settlements for land claims and self-government.

Peter Penashue was born and raised in the Innu community of Labrador. He graduated from Brother Rice High School in St. John’s and pursued studies at Memorial University of Newfoundland.