FSIN Chief Encouraged by Throne Speech

FSIN Chief Encouraged by Throne Speech

Tuesday, February 03, 2004 at 14:39

The chief of the FSIN says isolated communities in Northern Saskatchewan stand to benefit from yesterday’s throne speech.

Alphonse Bird says Paul Martin’s pledge to live up to treaty obligations and upgrade certain living conditions for First Nations people is welcome news for many communities struggling to provide the necessities of life for their residents.

Bird points out that while First Nations all over the province need help, some in remote locations will need additional resources.

Bird also feels the speech signals that there is hope the Paul Martin government will listen to native leaders on issues like the controversial health consent form. However, he feels the government’s immediate focus has to be on the everyday issues facing Aboriginal Canadians.

Bird says most of Canada has no idea what housing conditions are like for many band members and that’s why he’s encouraged by Martin’s admission that such a plight is embarrasing to the entire country.

He also believes Martin has already accomplished more than Jean Chretien did during his entire tenure.