Local First Nation Leaders are furious with the Provincial Government of the elimination of the aboriginal affairs portfolio as a full-time cabinet position.
Saugeen First Nation Chief Randall Kahgee says this is a huge step backward as far as he relationship between the Provincial Government and Aboriginal communities is concerned.
He says this move runs counter to the position and principals this government has advocated over the past few years, especially in light of the recommendations that came out of the Ipperwash inquiry.
He says that report emphasized the need for a stand alone ministry to deal with Aboriginal affairs.
Chief Kahgee says this move to have a part time ministry dealing with Native issues has the potential to further marginalize the Governments relationship with First Nation communities.
He says for many people living on first nation communities right across the province this move by the government will be viewed as nothing more than a slap in the face.
Chief Kahgee says this move also will increase the level of distrust that already exsists in First Nation Communities towards the Provincial Government.
He says his community and other are facing anumber of profound issues including high suicide rates, economic hardship and long-standing treaty disputes and to downgrade the Aboriginal affairs portfolio is the wrong move at the wrong time.
Chief Kahgee expects there will be a swift response from Native leaders Province side to this move and he says he intends to be part of that protest.