Release: Nation-to-nation talks needed to replace Indian Act – not status quo. June 6, 2013 Share Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Reddit Share on LinkedIn Email For Immediate Release June 6, 2013 REGINA – Conservative Member of Parliament Rob Clarke’s controversial bill to amend the Indian Act flies in direct contravention of the Prime Minister’s statement at the Crown-First Nation Gathering not to unilaterally replace the Indian Act; but moreso, smacks of paternalism and colonialist mentality from a government more concerned with addressing Indigenous issues through small piece-meal bits and pieces, rather than working collaboratively to achieve real results for First Nations. Once again – as it did with Bill C-45 (the omnibus bill which sparked #IdleNoMore) – the Conservative government is neglecting due process and consultations with First Nations communities and leadership in its backdoor attempts to unilaterally amend the Indian Act” explains Reina Sinclair, President of the Aboriginal Peoples’ Commission in Saskatchewan. “If it is so important for Rob Clarke to make changes because of his experiences with Residential Schools, why is he repeating the exact same mistakes of governments past and acting in such a blatantly unilateral manner?” On Friday, May 31, Clarke’s Private Members Bill, which passed second reading in committee, will go for Third Reading in June. Liberals believe it is important to move beyond the legacy of the Indian Act, not perpetuate the status quo, and at the same time ensure that existing Aboriginal relationships, treaties, and agreements with the Crown are not compromised, which could negatively affect the lives of Aboriginal peoples. Rob Clarke’s bill and his actions are yet another example of how this government continues to disregard Indigenous Nations, their rights, or the relationship between Canadians that is so critical to our shared prosperity” added Chad Cowie, national Co-Chair of the APC. “The Duty to Consult, as enshrined in the constitution, and a major component of Bob Rae’s private members bill, is of the highest importance when attempting to move beyond the Indian Act. If Clarke could not make the time to adequately meet with all Indigenous leaders, hold consultation sessions with urban and non-urban Indigenous organizations, then perhaps he should cease his actions and re-think his strategy before he does irreparable damage the Crown-First Nation relationship and continues further harm to Indigenous peoples.” The Aboriginal Peoples’ Commission recognizes the importance of self-government to First Nations in achieving political, social, economic, and cultural development and improved quality of life. We must work in partnership to continue making positive change and move beyond the Indian Act to establish modern, effective, and efficient relationships between the federal government and First Nations. – 30 – For more information, please contact: Kevin Seesequasis Vice-President (Communications) Contact Us