Chief Lonechild wants Canada To Deal With Indian Act Amendments

Friday, 22 January 2010 00:00

(Saskatoon, SK) FSIN Chief Guy Lonechild is calling on the Federal Government to get back to work so they can deal with the amendments to the Indian Act. On Saturday January 23, 2010 there will be anti-prorogation rallies across the country. Chief Lonechild says First Nation leadership will support and participate in the events.

“We need to add our voice to the growing dissatisfaction and frustration with the proroguing of Parliament. There are serious issues that need to be dealt with in Parliament including citizenship,” says Chief Lonechild. “First Nations have always had the inherent right to determine and define their own citizens and maintain their distinct identity. The right to determine who belongs to First Nations was recognized and affirmed by the Treaty-making process. We are at a cross roads. We have exhausted all domestic remedies and we need to take this issue to a broader audience in the international community.”

In McIvor the BC Court of Appeal ruled that two sections of the Indian Act that pertained to the registration of Indians contravened Charter provisions.  Parliament was granted 12 month timeframe to amend Section (6) 1 a. and (6) 1 c. of the Indian Act to meet the non-discriminatory clauses of the Charter.
 
Parliament was prorogued on December 30, 2009 and as a result Saskatchewan First Nations are concerned because the legal uncertainty established by the McIvor ruling will not be addressed in a fair and just manner, one that honours and respects the Treaty relationship.

Chief Lonechild is joining Chief Dale Awasis from the Thunderchild First Nation on a trip to the United Nations in Geneva, Switzerland. The two leaders are exploring different avenues and options to address Treaty issues such as citizenship.

The Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations represents 74 First Nations in Saskatchewan. The Federation is committed to honouring the spirit and intent of Treaty, as well as the promotion, protection and implementation of the Treaty promises that were made more than a century ago.

For More Information Please Contact:
Mervin Brass, Executive Director of Communications   
Direct:   306.956-1026
Cellular: 306.220-7187
Facsimile:  306.665.0115