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Chiefs of Ontario press release ...

First Nations in Ontario not participating in the federal government consultation process on Matrimonial Real Property on reserves

    TORONTO, Feb. 19 /CNW/ - "There is no doubt that Matrimonial Real
Property on reserves is an important issue that needs to be addressed," stated
Ontario Regional Chief Angus Toulouse. He further acknowledged there is a
legislative gap that exists creating unfair situations that must be remedied.

    Regional Chief Toulouse stated that "we have made it clear to the federal
government that First Nations in Ontario have not, and will not, participate
in the current consultation process being imposed by the federal government as
it is too rushed and is not reflective of the time required to address the
complex issues related to MRP on reserves, nor is it proper consultation
according to the law." In November 2006, the Chiefs in Ontario passed a
resolution indicating their opposition to the current consultation process.
This resolution also called for the process to be "stopped and restructured."

    "First Nations have expressed their concerns that the issue of MRP on
reserves is complex and will impact on First Nations collective rights,
including land rights. This is not an issue that can be addressed without a
thorough examination of the many issues, including a review of the potential
implications of each option," stated Grand Chief Denise Stonefish, who is
chairing a working group for the First Nations in Ontario with regards to MRP.

    "I want to be as clear as I possibly can on this matter - First Nations
leaders in Ontario support addressing this issue but are seeking to enter into
discussions with Minister Prentice, on behalf of the government of Canada, to
develop a fair and meaningful consultation process." The Regional Chief
indicated that to date, the Minister has refused to meet with First Nations
leadership in Ontario with regard to MRP.

    The Regional Chief pointed out that there are First Nations in Ontario
that have developed their own MRP by-laws but that these are not recognized by
the federal government. "First Nations must have the autonomy and jurisdiction
to develop their own laws. This is a principle tenet of the right of
self-government," said Regional Chief Toulouse.

    By opposing the current consultation process, "First Nations leadership
are being unfairly characterized as opposing human rights for their citizens,
when what they are trying to do, and in fact mandated to do, is protect
against the further erosion of First Nation collective rights," said the
Regional Chief. He added that First Nations in Ontario will continue to seek a
meeting with Minister Prentice in an effort to establish a process that is
reflective of the concerns and priorities of First Nations, while at the same
time ensuring that the mechanisms are in place to enhance the protection of
human rights for every First Nation citizen.

For further information: Kathleen Pilcher, Chiefs of Ontario Political
Office, (807) 626-9339