Interim FSIN Chief Kimberley Jonathan says remarks made by Premier Brad Wall in regards to First Nations leadership are “inherently wrong and truly unfortunate”.
Last week, Wall told reporters that a house fire on a northern Saskatchewan reserve that killed two toddlers “underscores the need for leadership” in First Nations communities.
Jonathan says these comments imply a lack of leadership in all First Nations.
“That any leader would exploit the deaths of innocent children and use a tragedy such as this to attack all First Nations leaders is inherently wrong and truly unfortunate,” said Jonathan in a release. “To suggest that First Nations leaders are not concerned about the safety and well-being of their citizens is baseless. Had Premier Wall shown true leadership by discussing these issues directly with First Nations, he would have found that action is being taken.”
The chief says the FSIN and tribal councils across the province have proven their collective leadership in several critical areas.
Wall also praised the Saskatoon Tribal Council for its willingness to review fire protection services in its seven communities.
He said that is the kind of leadership that is needed.
When asked today to respond to Jonathan’s comments, the premier said he would never think to exploit the tragic loss of any life and for Chief Jonathan to suggest this is “ridiculous”.
Wall also said he stands by his comments in the memory of these children and in the interests of fire protection and safety for all Saskatchewan residents.