A bill has been introduced in the House of Commons to reform the Indian Act.
The private member’s bill was introduced by Desnethe-Missinippi-Churchill River MP Rob Clarke.
In a news release, he says the change will remove many outdated and unused sections of the Indian Act, while providing for the removal of all references to residential schools.
In addition, Clarke says it will repeal the wills and estates sections — and will return control over publication of bylaws to First Nations governance bodies.
He says the bill will also require the Minister of Aboriginal Affairs to report annually to Parliament on progress made to fully replace the Indian Act.
Clarke, who is a member of the Muskeg Lake Cree Nation, says the bill is an important step in creating a more respectful and modern relationship between Canada and First Nations.
He adds his bill would allow for a lengthy consultation period with willing First Nations partners to find the best way to replace the Indian Act.
A spokeswoman for Clarke’s office said he will speak on the subject sometime Tuesday.
The bill will be debated this fall.