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Saskatchewan Indigenous leaders are reacting to today’s cabinet shuffle. The Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations thanked the outgoing Ministers, particularly Carolyn Bennett and David Lametti. The FSIN stated it wanted to continue working with the newly named cabinet. However, Chief Bobby Cameron is cautiously optimistic, concerned that new ministers may stall progress on important files.
“We’re always surprised when things are progressing, we’ve established a good working relationship with, not only Marc Miller but Marco Mendicino and David Lametti. To be shuffled to new responsibilities, do we have to reintroduce ourselves and start from square one,” Cameron told MBC Radio. “Don’t stall the good work and carry on. And if there are stalling tactics, they are going to hear from me.”
Chief of the Lac La Ronge Indian Band Tammy Cook-Searson, said she has already done some research on new Crown-Indigenous Relations Minister Gary Anandasangaree. “I did a bit of research on him, so it looks like he specializes in human rights and he’s a lawyer, and we’re looking forward to working with him. We have had a good working relationship with the previous minister, Marc Miller, who brought many issues forward, including Treaty and Inherent Rights files that we have with the federal government, including Timber Bay Children’s Home,” she said. “We’ve been advocating for the children’s home for many years, and we were gaining some momentum with minister Marc Miller, so we’re hoping to be able to carry that on with the new Crown-Indigenous Relations minister.”
Metis Nation-Saskatchewan
“I am confident that Minister Anadasangaree’s dedication and commitment to public service will undoubtedly serve as a driving force for continued positive change and progress for our Nation,” MN-S President Glen McCallum said. “Minister Anadasangaree’s appointment comes at a critical juncture, as numerous challenges and opportunities lay ahead. MN–S is eager to collaborate with him and the federal cabinet to continue our path to self-government and settling the Île-à-laCrosse residential school claim. At MN–S, we believe that by fostering open communication, inclusivity, and constructive dialogue, we can build a stronger, more resilient Nation for generations to come. I would like to thank Ministers Miller and Bennett for their commitment and public service, their leadership has made significant impacts for our Nation, and we look forward to continuing our relationship with Minister Anadasangaree.”
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Marc Miller, the former Crown-Indigenous Relations Minister has a new portfolio in what is considered a major cabinet shuffle by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
Miller has been appointed to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship.
Toronto MP Gary Anandasangaree, a newcomer to cabinet, will now serve as Crown-Indigenous Relations Minister.
Anandasangaree, a lawyer was first elected to the House of Commons in 2015. He has previously served as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General.
Patty Hajdu will continue as Minister of Indigenous Services.
The majority of Trudeau’s cabinet has been shuffled, as seven MP’s have been promoted, and seven ministers removed. Several former ministers including Carolyn Bennett and David Lametti have announced earlier this week that they are now seeking re-election in 2025.
(Screenshot of Prime Minister Trudeau, Crown-Indigenous Relations Minister Gary Anandasangaree and Governor General Mary Simon. Courtesy of CPAC.)