Chiefs’ Patience With Government Wearing Thin
Thursday, June 10, 2010 at 15:24
Many First Nations chiefs were airing their frustrations yesterday in Regina during the FSIN assembly’s open forum.
Beardy’s and Okemasis Chief Rick Gamble believes chiefs are disillusioned by the provincial and federal governments and their apparent disregard for First Nations rights.
According to Gamble, it seems like the only time governments will listen is when bands file statements of claim.
He also says there is talk of staging blockades — and even though he doesn’t favour that approach, he says that’s where the current situation is headed.
Gamble and many chiefs agree it doesn’t help to keep passing resolutions at FSIN assemblies.
He says they can pass 10 resolutions on a subject over 12 years and nothing happens, adding it’s time to actually do something.