Liberal Critic Slams Specific Claims Deadline

Liberal Critic Slams Specific Claims Deadline

Wednesday, July 27, 2011 at 20:29

The Federal critic for Aboriginal Affairs says media reports of changes to specific land claim negotiations appear to be a take it or leave it approach.

Dr. Carolyn Bennett says there is a concern that the federal government is allowing only a certain amount of money available to settle outstanding claims within a three year period.

Meanwhile, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs John Duncan released a statement on the department website stating that the government continues to work with First Nations to settle outstanding specific land claims.

Duncan also states First Nations have the option of referring their claims to the Specific Claims Tribunal for “a binding decision if three years of negotiations do not result in a final settlement.”