October 12, 2011
I am writing on behalf of the Honourable John Duncan, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, in response to your correspondence of August 5, 2011, regarding the Coldwater-Narrows specific claim.
On March 24, 2011, Canada made an offer to the Chippewas of Beausoleil, the Chippewas of Rama, the Chippewas of Georgina Island and the Nawash First Nations to settle the Coldwater-Narrows specific claim. In April 2011, all the First Nations agreed by band council resolutions to recommend Canada's offer to their respective membership, and to engage in the process of a ratification vote, which requires time to prepare. The date of the ratification vote has not yet been set.
With regard to the compensation, Canada is not involved in the development of the First Nations' trust agreements nor is it reviewing or approving them. For further information on this matter, I suggest that you contact your Chief and Council.
I trust that my response addresses your concerns.
Sincerely,
David McArthur
Chief of Staff
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Does this letter mean that the Canadian Government is saying they have no interest or say in how the treaty settlement money is used by each band? If so, wouldn't that mean Chief and Council lied at that last Coldwater meeting?
ReplyDeleteObviously Hon. Duncan is responding to a letter he received. What is the concern? Please help me to understand the issue more clearly....
ReplyDeleteI think the concern is that the C&Cs are lying to us if they are telling us that Canada wants us not to get more than a certain % in personal distribution. Why are the chief and councilors lying to the people? I too have seen this letter and find the deception of the C&Cs as a huge red flag. It is time for us to stand up to these supposed leaders and state categorically "no more!"
ReplyDeleteI absolutely agree with the last comment.
ReplyDeleteI think some money should go to community development (but what does that look like? and who actually decides?) but yes, how is it possible that C & C dictate how much money will be taken from your pocket? Of course they will say "community consultations" justify a HUGE financial take away from individuals and families. But let me rephrase: if they actually said "hey...do you mind if we take HALF of what you are entitled to?" most people would complain and object wouldn't they?
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