|
Yvonne Jones, Opposition Labrador Affairs Critic and MHA for the District of
Cartwright - L’Anse au Clair, says the amendments government has tabled to
the LIA Land Claims Agreement fail to address issues raised by Labrador
Metis last year.
"Government’s recent amendments demonstrate, once more, its lack of
commitment to the Metis people of Labrador," said Jones. "These amendments,
like the treaty itself, remain silent on the rights of the 6000 Labrador
Metis."
Jones emphasizes that she is not against advancement of the Inuit land
claim agreement, and indeed sees this treaty as a step in the right
direction for all native peoples. "I am, however, speaking out to achieve
the same rights and independence for my people, the Metis, and that’s what I
intend to do."
The Liberal MHA feels that her amendments would put into legislation the
words and commitments made to the Metis people, but never acted upon by this
government.
"I have asked the government for assurances that this treaty would not
adversely affect future claims for the Metis, but I have been rebuffed at
every turn. The Minister responsible for Aboriginal Affairs has rejected my
pleas to amend this legislation, suggesting that my proposed amendments
don’t meet the criteria of consent of the Inuit, and the provincial and
federal governments. However, the amendments in Bill 28 were agreed upon
through consultation, showing that government could have made the changes
requested by the Labrador Metis.
"The Minister responsible for Aboriginal Affairs has called this treaty
something magic and historic. I would say that if it can be amended when it
suits government, but not amended when it suits the Metis, it is magic
indeed." |