Media.Knet.Ca

from http://www.anglicanjournal.com/extra/news.html?newsItem=2006-04-12_a.news

Church protests dropping of fast-track payments
Tories will not give advances to elderly former students

April 12, 2006 - Archbishop Andrew Hutchison, primate of the Anglican Church of Canada, has “strongly” urged Prime Minister Stephen Harper to reconsider the his Conservative government’s decision not to give advance payments to elderly former students of residential schools before a revised agreement is finalized.

“The Anglican Church of Canada is deeply disappointed at this failure to meet the needs of the elderly former students of residential schools,” said Archbishop Hutchison in a letter to Mr. Harper hours after Indian Affairs Minister Jim Prentice made the announcement on behalf of the federal government on April 11. “We expected a more humane response to the needs of former students, some of whom are faithful members of the Anglican church.”

The government’s decision reversed a provision in the revised Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement announced in November by the previous Liberal government that former students who are now 65 years of age or older are liable to apply for an advance payment of $8,000. Following the announcement of that agreement, the Anglican Church of Canada had renegotiated the terms of the 2003 residential agreement that it signed with the federal government.

“As a church we have long since acknowledged our own part in the sad history of the residential school system in Canada, through the establishment of an Anglican Healing Fund in 1991, and the issuing of a formal apology in 1993,” wrote Archbishop Hutchison in his letter. He added that the church had been “encouraged” by the appointment of former Supreme Court Justice Frank Iacobucci as special negotiator in May 2005, and had “willingly participated” in the negotiations that produced the revised Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement.

“While we were disappointed that the change of government resulted in some delay in implementing the agreement, we did not anticipate that your new government would fail to honour an important component, namely, the advance payments to elderly claimants,” added Archbishop Hutchison.

The Assembly of First Nations had urged Ottawa to fast-track payments to elderly claimants since a growing number of them are already ill or dying.

But Mr. Prentice said, “We clearly have an obligation to all Canadians. We have an obligation to all taxpayers.”

The revised agreement provides a $1.9 billion compensation package that will be offered to tens of thousands of aboriginal Canadians who attended Indian residential schools. It offers “every eligible” former native residential school student “living on May 30, 2005” up to $30,000 each in so-called Common Experience Payment. Each former student who applies would receive $10,000 and an additional $3,000 for each year of attendance in excess of the first year.

(The Anglican church operated 26 of 80 boarding schools attended by aboriginals from the mid-19th century into the 1970s. In recent years, hundreds of natives sued the church and the federal government, which owned the schools, alleging physical and sexual abuse.)

from http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/April2006/11/c8434.html

Assembly of First Nations and National Association of Friendship Centres Sign Memorandum of Understanding

OTTAWA, April 11 /CNW Telbec/ - Last night, Assembly of First Nations National Chief Phil Fontaine and Vera Pawis Tabobondung, the President of the National Association of Friendship Centres, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the two organizations in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The MOU is designed as a first step in NAFC participation in AFN policy development on urban issues.

"The AFN represents the rights and interests of First Nations and we recognize the important service delivery function of the NAFC. For First Nations citizens in many urban areas, Friendship Centres are a major source for culturally appropriate services," stated Assembly of First Nations National Chief Phil Fontaine. "Our efforts to provide analysis that integrates the urban First Nations perspective will be further improved by working with the National Association of Friendship Centres."

The MOU between the AFN and NAFC commits the two organizations to developing an effective working relationship as a first step in the development of further protocol agreements. The MOU calls for:

1. Inclusion of NAFC within the AFN policy processes, in particular, participation in AFN Policy Forums to provide urban analysis;
2. Joint research projects aimed at building common evidenced-based policy positions in regards to urban First Nations peoples (e.g., citizenship);
3. Enhanced communication networks between NAFC and AFN, including constituent members, through mutual notification (as appropriate) and joint efforts where it is deemed strategically advantageous; and
4. Consideration of future relationships and inclusion within organizational structures;

"Working with the NAFC will allow us to reach First Nation citizens in urban centres in more directed ways, and will also allow us to develop policies and recommendations that reflect the urban reality, as well as the reserve reality, and which build on and respect the unique efforts to work with off reserve citizens in different regions," stated the National Chief.

"This memorandum is a first step in what I believe will be a mutually beneficial and highly productive relationship."

The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada.

-30-

/For further information: Ian McLeod, AFN Bilingual Communications Officer, (613) 241-6789 ext. 336, cell (613) 859-4335/

from http://cnews.canoe.ca/CNEWS/Canada/2006/03/22/1500556-cp.html

Tories rule out fast-track payments for old, sick residential school victims

By SUE BAILEY - April 10
 
OTTAWA (CP) - The Conservatives will not fast-track $8,000 payments announced by the former Liberal government for sick and elderly former students of native residential schools.

Indian Affairs Minister Jim Prentice said Monday that a final version of a draft deal outlined by the Liberals last November must be reached first - "and that will form the basis of any payments that are made." Prentice said he hopes to receive a final agreement "shortly," but could not offer a time frame.

Victims groups and critics have blasted the Conservatives for not moving sooner. They say fast-track payments announced last fall were never contingent on a final agreement that must be approved by the courts.

Those owed compensation are dying at an estimated rate of more than 15 each week, they say. Many live in poverty.

Prentice blamed "one of the law firms" for "dragging its feet" in ongoing talks aimed at finalizing a compensation deal for about 78,000 former students who attended the once-mandatory schools.

He would not name the law firm. Several are involved as part of a consortium that launched a multibillion-dollar class-action lawsuit against the government.

A final compensation deal would effectively derail such cases.

Ottawa acknowledged in 1998 that abuse in the church-run institutions was rampant. More than 13,000 plaintiffs have since sued.

The Liberals announced last fall plans to offer every validated former student $10,000 plus $3,000 for each year spent in the schools meant to "Christianize" native kids.

Claimants who are sick or over age 65 were told they could apply for fast-track cheques of $8,000.

The Liberals were toppled days later. A new Conservative government has been in talks to reach a final deal since taking power more than two months ago.

But a lawyer involved in the negotiations says the Tories could still offer early payments to those who might not see justice otherwise.

"There's nothing stopping the Conservatives to do it," says Darcy Merkur of Thomson Rogers, the Toronto-based law firm that spearheaded a national class-action lawsuit for former students.

"Our clients are very, very anxious and this is long overdue," Merkur said.

Liberal MP Anita Neville, aboriginal affairs critic, said the delay has dashed hopes and caused confusion.

"We've been hearing many stories of elders who are either calling their aboriginal leadership or the (Indian Affairs) department and saying: "When are we getting our money?"

"There's a real fear that people are going to die first."

Under the draft deal, estates will be able to collect compensation for those who died after May 30, 2005, said lawyers tracking the issue. But claimants must make their wishes known through a will to avoid having the money tied up in legal red tape, they say.

from http://www.ainc-inac.gc.ca/nr/prs/j-a2006/2-02714_e.html

News Release   Communiqué  2-02714

ONTARIO FIRST NATIONS TO SEE MORE BENEFITS FROM TRAPPING

THUNDER BAY, ONTARIO (April 10, 2006) - First Nations in Ontario will now receive increased benefits from trapping activities in their traditional territories following agreements signed with the Government of Canada and the Province of Ontario.

Today, the Anishinabek Nation, Grand Council Treaty No. 3 and Nishnawbe Aski Nation announced the signing of trapping harmonization agreements with the Government of Ontario and the Government of Canada.

Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, the Honourable Jim Prentice, said the agreement "presents an excellent opportunity to work together through co-operative dialogue to strengthen relationships, and to build a better future for First Nations people."

Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief John Beaucage described the agreement as "key to maintaining good working relationships with our partners in order to uphold mutual values of conservation as joint stewards of Mother Earth."

Grand Council Treaty No. 3 Ogichidaa Arnold Gardner said, "This step towards a renewed relationship based on the laws of Canada and the inherent laws of the Anishinaabe will promote better relations for the next generations of our diverse cultures."

Nishnawbe Aski Nation Grand Chief Stan Beardy called the agreement "the starting point in managing our renewable resources, creating a partnership with both levels of government so that we can continue to resolve conflicting policies and laws affecting the lives of the people in our territory."

"These agreements are good examples of how Ontario is promoting more effective relationships between First Nations, Canada and Ontario, and reflect our government's commitment to strong, prosperous Aboriginal communities," said Ontario Minister of Natural Resources and Minister Responsible for Aboriginal Affairs, the Honourable David Ramsay.
The trapping harmonization agreements will allow these First Nations organizations to:
* issue trapping licences to members;
* address the current royalties system from the sale of furs;
* provide training to individuals who want to qualify for first-time trapping licences; and
* administer trap-line allocations in traditional territories.

Negotiations with the Government of Ontario dealing with the management and administration of trapping within traditional territories have been under way since 1993 (in the case of Nishnawbe Aski Nation and Grand Council Treaty #3) and 1998 (in the case of the Anishinabek Nation).  More information about the history of the negotiations can be found in the attached Backgrounder, "Ontario Trapping Harmonization Agreements."

The Department of Indian and Northern Affairs Canada provided funding for negotiations and implementation of the trapping harmonization agreements, as well as technical support and information. 

- 30 -

This release is also available at:http://www.inac.gc.ca .

For further information, please contact:

Tony Prudori
Acting Senior Information Officer
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
(807) 624-1535

Steve Payne
Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources
Communications Services Branch
(416)-314-2103
  Maurice Switzer
Director of Communications
Union of Ontario Indians
(705) 497-9127, Ext.2272

Adolphus Cameron
Grand Council Treaty #3
(807) 548-4214

Jenna Young
Director of Communications
Nishnawbe Aski Nation
(807) 625-4952
*---

Backgrounder
ONTARIO TRAPPING HARMONIZATION AGREEMENTS

Aboriginal people were involved in fur trading activities long before the first Europeans arrived on this continent. Furs were a source of clothing, shelter and ornaments.  Fur trading activities contributed to the development of Aboriginal communities. 

Upon the arrival of the explorers, beaver pelts were the first item to be traded in exchange for cooking pots and ornamental items. As the industry grew, fur trading companies were formed and took advantage of the abundance of furs available.  As trapping and fur trading activities expanded, conservation measures were undertaken in Ontario in the late 1800s, but there were no mechanisms in place to enforce these efforts.

In 1993, during tripartite meetings with the Government of Ontario, held through the Indian Commission of Ontario, Nishnawbe Aski Nation and Grand Council Treaty #3, both First Nations Organizations began negotiating the takeover, management, and administration of trapping within their own territories.  The Anishinabek Nation, represented by the Union of Ontario Indians, began similar negotiations in 1998.  Each of the three Provincial-Territorial Organizations, with the assistance of the Indian Commission of Ontario, conducted separate discussions with the Province of Ontario (Ministry of Natural Resources).  In 1998, former Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development, the Honourable Ron Irwin advised that Canada would also be a party to the agreements.

Funding for the negotiations was provided through a program known as the Participation Fund, which consisted of funding from Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, the Government of Ontario, and First Nations.  The Participation Fund was administered by the Indian Commission of Ontario.

The agreements, one for each of the three provincial/territorial organizations, were signed by the signatories in April and May 2005, and are effective as of April 1, 2005

As local, national and international efforts and pressures are made by corporations and governments to privatize the use and access to water; more groups are struggling to ensure that access to safe, clean drinking water is a right for all people.

from http://www.ienearth.org/declaration_tlatokan_atlahuak_en.doc

TLATOKAN ATLAHUAK DECLARATION
Declaration of the Indigenous Peoples Parallel Forum of the 4th World Water Forum
Mexico City, Mexico
March 17-18, 2006

1. We, representatives of Indigenous Peoples and organizations of Mexico, the Americas and other continents of the world participating in the Indigenous Forum parallel to the 4th World Water Forum, declare our solidarity with the Indigenous Peoples of Mexico and their struggle for their ancestral territories and natural resources of which water is a primordial element. For all Indigenous Peoples of the world, water is the source of material, cultural and spiritual life.
2. We, international representatives, appreciate the welcome that has been extended to us by the Indigenous Peoples of Mexico.  We especially appreciate the opening ceremony of our forum, conducted by the traditional governor of the Yaqui tribe and our Mazahuas relatives.
3. We reaffirm the Indigenous Peoples Kyoto Water Declaration of the 3rd World Water Forum of Kyoto, Japan of March 2003.  It recognizes our relation with our Mother Earth and our responsibility to future generations. We raise our voices in solidarity and proclaim the responsibility to protect and defend water. We have been placed upon this earth, each in our own traditional sacred land and territory to care for all of creation and water.
4. We reaffirm the same Declaration to honor and respect water as a sacred being that sustains all life. Our traditional knowledge, laws and forms of life teach us to be responsible and caring for this sacred gift that connects all life.
5. We reaffirm that the relationship we have with our lands, territories and water constitute the physical, cultural and spiritual basis of our existence. The relationship with our Mother Earth obligates us to conserve our fresh water and seas for the survival of present and future generations. We assume our roles as guardians, with rights and responsibilities that defend and guarantee the protection, availability and purity of water. We unite to respect and implement our traditional knowledge and laws, and to exercise our right of self determination to preserve water and life.
6. The situation of the Indigenous Peoples of Mexico makes it even more clear that the struggle for our water is tied fundamentally with our struggle for our right of self determination. This is the case of our Yaqui relatives, the Otomí, Ñahñahú, Matlazinca, Mazahua, Tlahuica and Nahuas of the Alto Río Lerma; of our relatives of Xochipas, of Xochimilco of Tecámac, of Xoxocotla Morelos; and as with our relatives of the  Sierra de Manantlán and Ayotitlán in Jalisco; and other Indigenous Peoples of the world.
7. Mexico and countries that are accomplices of the multinational corporations, violate with impunity the human rights and fundamental freedoms that they themselves have consecrated in the Covenants, Conventions and Declarations of the United Nations and the Organization of American States.
8. We assert our right of development determined by our own laws and traditional authorities, consistent with our values and world view.
9. Our lands, territories and natural resources, particularly our water (rivers, springs, wells, lakes, groundwater) continue to be stolen or ruined with extreme pollution. The water multinationals, with the support of the international finance agencies like the World Bank and the Interamerican Development Bank are accomplices in the privatization of our territories and our water.  This creates a scarcity of water raising its economic value and furthering the view of water as an object of commerce.
10. We reject the neoliberal model of life that views water as merchandise, not as a public good, or a fundamental human right. Agencies such as the World Trade Organization promote privatization projects of our vital liquid. This destroys flora and fauna and consequently creates sicknesses like cancer, even among youth, as well as the disappearance of our cultures.
11. As Indigenous Peoples, we assert in all the national and international laws, the right of self determination and the recognition of our territories. We assert our autonomy in the use and enjoyment of our natural resources such as water, as a human right. We demand this recognition for our own customs and laws and oral traditions.
12. We demand from the national authorities and multilateral institutions such as the United Nations and Organization of American States and the governmental participants of the 4th World Water Forum, the full participation of Indigenous Peoples in any project or action of water management and development in our territories. We demand the guarantee of the right of free, prior and informed consent as is established by international law.
13. We declare our solidarity with the struggle of the Indigenous Peoples of Mexico and other parts of the world who have come to this forum to condemn authorities that don’t resolve conflict nor guarantee the supply of water, but repress those who struggle to defend water; including energy and mining companies that consume and poison our Mother Earth and water and poisoning all Life.
14. We recognize the work of the communities that promote their own peoples. We recognize communities, organizations, universities and committed academicians who protect, defend and recuperate water as a right of all beings.
15. We call upon all Indigenous Peoples to organize and form committees for the defense of water and that it be a basis of all of our struggles to obtain the full recognition and absolute enjoyment of our territories and natural resources.
16. We demand that the Mexican government and its States immediately incorporate mechanisms for recognition of the rights of its Indigenous Peoples in water and public policy as affirmed by international treaties and agreements.
17. We denounce the structure of the World Water Forum for being financially prohibitive, which excludes the very Indigenous Peoples who are impacted. We denounce the format of the World Water Forum for denying the legitimacy of the indigenous world and spiritual vision of the sacredness of water.

 México, D.F. March 18th, 2006.

Indigenous Peoples and Organizations Present at the Indigenous Forum Endorsing this Declaration:

• Tribu Yaqui, Octaviano Jecari Espinzona (Mexico)
• Indigenous Student Organization of the University of Mexico, Diana Alejandra Lopez Ramirez (Mexico)
  Red Regional de Turismo en Xochimilco (Mexico)
  Sistema de Agua Portable, Saul Rogue Morales (Mexico)
• Coordinadores de Trabajadores en Defensa del Agua, Angel Martinez (Mexico)
• Organización de Desarrollo y Ayude a los Pueblos Indígenas (Mexico)
• Confederación Nacional de Naciones Indigenas Originarios de Bolivia, Jaime Apaza Chuqimia (Bolivia)
• Internacional Indian Treaty Council, Alberto Saldamando (US & Meso America)
• Indigenous Environmental Network, Tom Goldtooth (US & Canada)
• Black Mesa Water Coalition, Enei Begaye (US)
• St'at'imc Chiefs Council, Chief Garry John (Canada)
• Winnemem Wintu Tribe, Village of Kerekmet, Headman, Mark Franco (US)

Some other online resources concerning this important issue that affects everyone, our children and our children's children ...

The Indigenous Environmental Network - http://www.ienearth.org

Tlatokan Atlahuak Declaration - 4th World Water Forum

The Tlatokan Atlahuak Declaration was prepared by the Indigenous peoples Parallel Forum and submitted to the Secretariat of the 4th World Water Forum in Mexico City in March 2006. The declaration reaffirms the sacredness of water and the importance of water not to be privatized. The indigenous peoples attending the parallel forum called for the formation of an Indigenous Water Defense Committee to watchdog abuses and violations of water rights within indigenous lands and territories. 
 
Indigenous brothers and sisters gathered at the 4th World Water Forum held in Mexico City. A grassroots parallel forum was held on March 17 -18th since many Indigenous peoples from Mexico were not able to pay the high registration fees charged by the World Water Forum. An Indigenous Peoples Parallel Forum was attended by over 100 Indigenous peoples from Mexico, U.S., Canada, and South America. Indigenous participants consistently spoke to the concerns of local authorities and the government in their countries not recognizing the rights of Indigenous communities to water. In some countries, even though there is legislation that secures rights of Indigenous peoples, these rights are violated when it comes to access to water. The TLATOKAN ATLAHUAK DECLARATION was prepared by the Indigenous peoples Parallel Forum and submitted to the Secretariat of the World Water Forum. The declaration reaffirms the sacredness of water and the importance of water not to be privatized. Many Indigenous communities throughout the world are still experiencing depletion and contamination of water from mining and other toxic polluting activities, including agricultural pesticides. The Indigenous peoples attending the parallel forum are calling for the formation of an Indigenous Water Defense Committee to watchdog abuses and violations of water rights within Indigenous lands and territories.

Contacts:

• Saul Vicente Vasquez (Mexico) IITC binizaa2002@yahoo.com.mx
• Tom Goldtooth (US) Indigenous Environmental Network ien@igc.org + 1 218 751-4967
• Enei Begaye (US) Black Mesa Water Coalition enei_begaye@yahoo.com + 1 928 380 6296
• Josephine Mandamin (Canada) Water Keeper - 3 Fires Society jomandamin@shaw.ca

Pipe Dreams: The Failure of the Private Sector to Invest in Water Services in Developing Countries

from http://www.wdm.org.uk/resources/briefings/aid/pipedreamsfullreport.pdf

This Joint study undertaken by the World Development Movement (WDM) and Public Services International (PSI) provides a demonstrated and critical review about the process of privatisation in water services and its negative outcomes on disadvantaged groups. By scrutinizing the context behind the rally for privatization schemes in water management and provisions the report debunks the realities entertained by the myth, and the discrepancies accounted for in terms of financing and incentive based programs to align the private sector with community development programs. (March 2006: PDF 60 P)

http://topics.developmentgateway.org/indigenous/highlights/default/showMore.do
Water and Indigenous People: 4th World Water Forum, Mexico City, March 2006

from http://topics.developmentgateway.org/indigenous/rc/ItemDetail.do~1060201
4th World Water Forum: Is Water Alive? - Several sessions at the 4th World Water Forum in Mexico City in March 2006 addressed the role of water for indigenous people. This session explored indigenous spiritual understandings of water and water bodies and consider the practical implications for water management.  

The public has until April 19 to provide the new Conservative government with their feedback about priorities and strategies for implementing them. Visit www.fin.gc.ca/activty/consult/prebud_e.html for more information and send your suggestions and feedback to budget2006consult@fin.gc.ca

Key Consultations Issues

Without restricting other comments you make, we would appreciate your views on the following questions:

1. What would you like to see in Budget 2006 and future budgets?
2. If you propose further tax cuts - or spending increases - where should the government spend less?
3. How can the government deliver programs more efficiently and effectively?

From Wawatay News online at http://www.wawatay.on.ca

Web-based national pre-budget consultations launched

Posted by Joyce Hunter, Friday, April 7

For the first time ever, the federal government is encouraging Canadians to participate in the budget process online.

Minister of Finance Jim Flaherty has launched an online consultation process on the department’s website to give Canadians an opportunity to provide their views to the Government during the pre-budget consultation period.

"This approach opens the pre-budget consultations up to all Canadians, giving taxpayers in every corner of this vast country an opportunity to share their views," he said.

Flaherty is seeking views and advice from all Canadians on how best to implement the Government’s five priorities. Those include:

• Cleaning up government, by passing the Federal Accountability Act;
• Reducing the tax burden of Canadians, starting with a one-percentage-point cut to the goods and services tax;
• Making our streets and communities safer, by cracking down on crime and introducing mandatory minimum sentences;
• Supporting families, by providing a $1,200 per year Choice in Child Care Allowance for each child under six, and providing tax credits to employers who cover the full cost of creating child care spaces; and
• Working with the provinces to improve health care, by establishing a Patient Wait Times Guarantee.

He is also asking people to identify areas where the Government can spend less or deliver programs in a more efficient and effective way.

"I hope to gather innovative ideas not just for this year’s budget, but for future budgets," Flaherty said. "We have set priorities that are reasonable and affordable, and with help from Canadian families we will stick by them."

The Web consultation page, including a background document, can be found on the Department of Finance Canada website at www.fin.gc.ca/activty/consult_e.html.

Submissions can be made by e-mail at budget2006consult@fin.gc.ca or by fax at (613) 992-0938.

As is customary in the traditional face-to-face pre-budget consultations, views submitted via the Web will be provided to the Minister and held confidential.

The pre-budget consultation process ends April 19.

http://www.canada.com/topics/news/national/story.html?id=acc68ff7-0c9f-494f-8713-f97f77746200&k=22800
 
Thursday » April 6 » 2006
 
New Tory ethics plan to grant new power to audit native reserves
 
Alexander Panetta And Sue Bailey - Canadian Press

OTTAWA (CP) - First Nations would be subject to unprecedented spending scrutiny under omnibus ethics legislation the new Conservative government will introduce next week, The Canadian Press has learned.

The Tories' Federal Accountability Act will allow the auditor general to examine aboriginal communities' books to determine whether taxpayers are getting value from federal cash transfers. "(This is) a groundbreaking move," said a federal official who asked not to be named.

"The auditor general is going to have extended powers and one of those groups (affected) is going to be First Nations bands."

The Tories have already said their accountability act, the sweeping ethics package they cite as their first priority in government, will drastically expand Auditor General Sheila Fraser's oversight power.

But the decision to include native communities among her list of potential auditing targets has never been announced.

It is sure to be controversial.

First Nations have long complained they are already overly subjected to cumbersome audits.

They must submit their books for examination each year to the Indian Affairs department, although the auditor general has no automatic access to those documents.

Fraser blew the lid open on the sponsorship scandal in 2004 by exposing waste and murky paper trails in the Public Works department.

She complained at the time, however, that she could not access the books of private companies like Groupaction that received the federal cash.

Government sources say the Tory legislation will allow her to follow the money into non-government entities - including aboriginal communities.

"She knew the money went there but she couldn't see what happened once the money ended up at Groupaction," said one federal official.

"Now she will be able to."

The national chief of the Assembly of First Nations urged the Conservatives last week not to impose new accountability measures without discussion.

Phil Fontaine has proposed a native auditor general to assess reserve governments.

He has also repeatedly stressed that just a tiny minority of First Nations fail to file independently certified audits required by Indian Affairs each year.

That's just one in a long list of reporting demands.

In fact, Fraser assailed the former Liberal government in 2002 for what she called a "crazy quilt" of audits that Ottawa receives from cash-strapped band councils.

Auditors visited four First Nations and two tribal councils in Saskatchewan that year. Fraser reported that at least 168 reports were required each year to account for federal funds from a wide range of departments.

Much of the thick paper trail wasn't even read once it got to Ottawa, Fraser found.

One aboriginal expert is concerned that unfairly singling out a small percentage of troubled communities will tarnish all bands.

"It reaffirms this notion that there is mismanagement and corruption rampant - even though that's not in fact the case," said Dan Wilson, special accountability adviser to the Assembly of First Nations.

Wilson sees a silver lining to Fraser's potential input, however.

"If she were able to do it, I could actually see it paying off in terms of raising awareness about where the real problems in accountability lie."

Native leaders have long said that yearly increases in federal funding capped at two per cent have not kept pace with inflation and population growth.

Many First Nations have struggled to make ends meet while deplorable living standards erode, they say.

Fontaine also points out that Ottawa should be accountable for unfulfilled treaties that have denied native people a fair share of natural resources.

"I have seen calculations indicating that the energy, forestry and mining sectors contribute $141.8 billion to Canada's economy," he said in a recent speech.

"Much of that economy would not be available to Canada if our ancestors were not willing to strike honourable agreements to share in the riches of this beautiful land."

The Canadian Taxpayers Federation has long argued for a better look at native books.

Canadians through their federal tax dollars spend about $8 billion a year on aboriginal programs, says spokeswoman Tanis Fiss.

"Right now, the auditor general does not have access to audit that information.

"Taxpayers deserve the right to know how and where their money is being spent and whether or not they're receiving value for their money."

© The Canadian Press 2006

A pair of nesting bald eagles in British Columbia are being watched by people from around the world. Check out the live webcam feed at http://www.infotecbusinesssystems.com/wildlife/

And also the CBC Online News story at http://www.cbc.ca/story/canada/national/2006/04/04/eagle060404.html

Webcam of nesting eagles takes off
Tue, 04 Apr 2006 - CBC News

A webcam is giving thousands of people around the world a close look at the lives of a pair of nesting bald eagles on B.C.'s Hornby Island.

Last week, the website went online as the eagles laid two eggs that are expected to hatch by the end of the month.

Retired accountant David Carrick said he has been keeping an eye on the pair of eagles in his secluded property for 14 years. But about 18 months ago – with government permission – he got an even closer look, installing a camera in the nest while the eagles were away on their annual migration.

He said the eagles noticed the enclosed camera and "pecked at it" and then got on with their lives.

At that point, the cable from the camera only ran into his TV and VCR. Carrick said he recorded some of the best moments, including the female laying two eggs, last year.

He showed the videos to biologists who offered to make the feed public on his website.

Last week, about 40,000 viewers a day went to the site after the female laid her clutch for this year. And Hancock has had to add three new web servers to meet the demand.

Carrick hopes the intimate look at the nesting eagles will make people think twice about threatening the species' habitat.

The Assembly of First Nations and the Union of Ontario Indians were quick to express their disappointment in today's Speech from the Throne by the new Conservative government. There was no mention of First Nations or the efforts to address poverty and third world conditions in First Nations across Canada in the government's new agenda. See the two press releases below.

http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/April2006/04/c7818.html
 
Assembly of First Nations Responds to Speech from the Throne

    OTTAWA, April 4 /CNW Telbec/ - Assembly of First Nations National Chief Phil Fontaine responded today to the Government of Canada's Speech from the Throne, and called on the government to address the critically important agreements reached on residential schools and at the First Ministers Meeting on Aboriginal Issues in Kelowna.

    "Our expectation was that there would be no specific mention of First Nations issues, given that we were not one of the government's five stated priorities, but we are still disappointed that there was no reference to our agenda, nor any reference to our historic agreements on residential schools or to close the gap in quality of life between First Nations and other Canadians," said the National Chief.

    The Speech from the Throne focused on the stated "top five" priorities of the new Conservative government. The National Chief nevertheless noted that First Nations will continue to work with government to ensure that First Nations issues also remain a priority.

    "I know that the Minister of Indian Affairs, the Honourable Jim Prentice, is committed to, as he says, 'putting the wheels on Kelowna'", stated the National Chief. "The First Ministers' agreements and the Agreement in Principle on Residential Schools are priorities for First Nations that will also benefit all Canadians in the long-term. The government has stated that it is willing to support the First Ministers and residential schools agreements in principle. Let's work together to put principle into practice."

    The National Chief stated that the Speech from the Throne sets the tone for the government, but he and First Nations across the country will be closely watching the upcoming federal budget to get a better sense of the government's commitment to collaborative approaches and concrete results.

    "The Federal Budget will provide details of the government's commitment to improving quality of life for First Nations," said the National Chief. "Other commitments from the previous government have been honoured. For example, farmers received over $700 million from this government - money that was promised by the previous government."

    National Chief Fontaine highlighted the government's intent to issue an apology regarding the Chinese head tax through Parliament as evidence of the government's willingness to address the institutionalized racism and discrimination of the past, and called on Prime Minister Harper to move forward with agreements on residential schools compensation and reconciliation as further evidence of that willingness.

    "We applaud the efforts by government and the Chinese-Canadian community to address this outstanding injustice from our past," said the National Chief. "We have an Agreement in Principle on Residential Schools, which is a means to address one of the most widespread, pervasive and destructive examples of past discrimination. All that is required to implement this agreement is final approval by the federal government."

    The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada.

For further information: Don Kelly, AFN Communications Director, (613) 241-6789 ext. 320 or cell (613) 292-2787; Ian McLeod, AFN Bilingual Communications Officer, (613) 241-6789 ext. 336 or cell (613) 859-4335

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http://www.ccnmatthews.com/news/releases/news.jsp - UNION OF ONTARIO INDIANS - APRIL 4, 2006
 
Throne speech missed aboriginals

NIPISSING FIRST NATION--(CCNMatthews - April 4, 2006) - First Nations in Canada have expressed profound disappointment in today's Speech from the Throne. With the exception of a vague mention of aboriginal entrepreneurs in the preamble and a mention of improving opportunities for all Canadians "including Aboriginal peoples", there was no mention of aboriginal issues in today's address to Parliamentarians.

"The First Peoples' of Canada have been left high-and-dry in this Throne Speech. I am profoundly disappointed that there has been no priority given, whatsoever, regarding key aboriginal issues, including the elimination of poverty, aboriginal health care, drinking water quality and substandard infrastructure, and housing.

"We continue to be left in the dark about the Conservative government's aboriginal agenda," added Grand Council Chief.

Grand Council Chief Beaucage was the co-chair of the First Ministers' Meeting Working Groups in Housing and Relationships. As such, he was quite taken-aback about the lack of any mention of the First Ministers' Meeting priorities: Housing, Health, Life Long Learning, Economic Opportunities, and Relationships.

"We have maintained that the First Nations' housing deficit is at critical levels. First Nations housing should not only be a priority for this government, it should be a basic human right of all Canadians," said Beaucage.

First Nations have long maintained there is a significant shortage of housing in First Nations' communities across Canada. Needs estimate range from 35,000 to 85,000 units.

"We are ready to build and own our own homes. We are ready to show that the First Nations' housing action plan resulting from the First Ministers' meeting can work and that with the proper priority and investment, a bona fide housing market can be established in First Nation communities," said Beaucage.

Beaucage was pleased to see the government moving to improve community safety by "putting more police on the street". First Nations police services are among the lowest funded services in Canada. A number of First Nations in Ontario have been waiting for police services including: Serpent River First Nation, Algonquins of Pikwakanagan, and Long Lake #58.

"For years we have seen the need for improved safety and policing in First Nation communities. We expect that this government's priority will mean more First Nation police officers, new policing to under-serviced First Nations and better overall security and safety for Canadian communities."

However, health care continues to be the issue of most concern for First Nations in Canada.

"Our people are suffering - our people are dying - while mainstream Canadians can be assured they will get the health care that they pay for," said Grand Council Chief Beaucage. "The lack of priority for First Nations health will mean little or no progress on the prescription drug abuse, diabetes and mental health issues and suicide prevention."

There is a tremendous concern over the prevalence of prescription drug abuse in Ontario First Nation communities. Abuse and trafficking of Oxycoten, percadone, percacets, and crystal methamphetamines has emerged as the number one health priority for First Nations in Ontario, especially in Anishinabek Nation territory. The Union of Ontario Indians is proposing a comprehensive strategy to curb the problem of prescription drug abuse and support First Nations that are coping with treatment and affects of this problem.

Just this weekend, another suicide took place at the Chippewas of the Thames First Nation near London, Ontario. At least two suicides, and many more attempts have taken place there. It's been a disturbing trend in urban Native communities not only in impoverished northern communities.

The Anishinabek Nation incorporated the Union of Ontario Indians as its secretariat in 1949. The UOI is a political advocate for 42 member First Nations across Ontario. The UOI is the oldest political organization in Ontario and can trace its roots back to the Confederacy of Three Fires, which existed long before European contact.

CONTACT INFORMATION
Bob Goulais, Executive Assistant to the Grand Council Chief, Union of Ontario Indians
Primary Phone: 705-498-5250
E-mail: goubob@anishinabek.ca

The "Duty to Consult" process is taking on a new meaning as the mining company's lawyers get involved in the dispute over how the traditional territories of Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug are explored and developed. The people of Big Trout Lake are determined to protect their territories, the resources, the water, the animals, the plant life and all aspects of their lifestyles against foreign exploitation.