Dear Editor:
All parties in the House of Commons agree that the Indian Act is badly outdated and holds back First Nations from becoming more self-sufficient. Where we disagree is on how to address the issue. Our Conservative government has taken real action to support First Nations, and is continuing to do so. We oppose Liberal leader Bob Rae’s motion because it is a call to replace action with discussion.
Over the past six years, we have consulted widely and provided real alternatives to the Indian Act, for example enabling First Nations to assume greater control over reserve lands and resources. We’ve introduced a bill to allow First Nations to exercise a more transparent and accountable election system.
In addition, we have made significant investments in First Nations education, housing and water infrastructure. All this stands in contrast to the Liberal record of talk and inaction. We continue to work toward updating the Indian Act and supporting self-sufficiency for First Nations.
Blaine Calkins,
Wetaskiwin MP