Merasty Slams Proposed Changes To Human Rights Act

Merasty Slams Proposed Changes To Human Rights Act

Friday, December 15, 2006 at 16:23

Northern Saskatchewan’s Member of Parliament says he worries the Conservative government may be playing politics with a recent decision to amend human rights legislation concerning reserves.

The Tories announced this week they want to repeal Section 67 of the Canadian Human Rights Act, which basically exempts bands from having to defend themselves from challenges of discrimination from on-reserve residents.

Merasty says he can’t believe Indian Affairs Minister Jim Prentice neglected to consult Aboriginal groups over the matter.

Prentice says he simply wants band members to have the same rights and protection as other Canadians.

Merasty says if Prentice is so interested in First Nations’ rights, than the Tories wouldn’t have opposed the United Nations’ Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

Merasty says he supports the strengthening of rights on reserve, but believes the government has ulterior motives.

Merasty adds bands could be over-run with legal bills if the challenges get out of hand.