Saturday, March 13, 2010

Natives Feel Isolated After Throne Speech

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Saugeen First Nation
by Shannon Snoes    

Aboriginal groups are feeling isolated.

They were not mentioned in either the recent or federal throne speeches.

Saugeen First Nation Chief Randall Kahgee calls it not only disheartening but disturbing.

He says they've been told time and time again - the government is committed to improving the quality of life for aboriginal people.

He says they've also been told the government wants to forge a solid relationship with them.

Chief Kahgee says not including aboriginals in either speech - goes against those promises.

He says it's simply more proof they have not advanced any further despite key recommendations coming from the Ipperwash Inquiry.

One of those - was to have a separate aboriginal affairs minister and ministry - which failed to happen during a cabinet shuffle earlier this year.

Attorney General Chris Bentley assumed those additional responsibilites after Brad Duguid was moved to energy and infrastructure.