FSIN Not Willing to Negotiate Casino Smoking Issue

FSIN Not Willing to Negotiate Casino Smoking Issue

Friday, January 21, 2005 at 15:21

 

 

The chief of the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations says he won’t be cutting any deals with the NDP government requiring First Nations-run casinos to bow to provincial law.

 

Alphonse Bird says he has nothing against Health Minister John Nilson’s idea of making Saskatchewan smoke-free.

 

However, Bird points out the minister forgot to consult with either the FSIN or individual First Nations about the ideas, which paved the way for the current standoff.

 

Recently, First Nations Relations Minister Maynard Sonntag told reporters he would be willing to negotiate on other rights with Aboriginal leaders if some kind of consensus could be reached on the smoking issue.

 

Bird says he is always open to negotiation, but he won¹t be signing off on anything that is based on rights or treaties, as the FSIN is not a signatory to any treaty.

 

Bird also says he wouldn’t be able to force First Nations with casinos into a no-smoking agreement either, as the federation respects each band’s jurisdiction.

 

He also is troubled by the fact many people in the province merely see this as a health issue when he feels the main focus should be on jurisdiction.

 

He says during his time in office, he has realized many citizens are still unaware of First Nations’ rights — including their right to self-determination.