Aboriginal Groups React To Cabinet Shuffle

Wednesday, August 15, 2007 at 14:12

 

 

The chief of the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations says he’s sorry to see Jim Prentice go.

 

However, Lawrence Joseph insists he can work with any Indian Affairs minister, and that’s why he is treating yesterday’s cabinet shuffle with an open mind.

 

He notes it’s frustrating to have to break in a new minister — but says he will provide Chuck Strahl with whatever information he needs.

 

He’s also optimistic Strahl will do a good job in his new role.

 

Meantime, the interim president of the Metis National Council says he hopes the new appointment won’t jeopardize Metis issues.

 

Bruce Dumont says he used to hold face-to-face meetings with Prentice and hopes that doesn’t change with Strahl’s appointment.

 

Dumont adds he hopes to meet with Strahl before the year is out.

 

Officials with the Native Women’s Association of Canada say they hope Strahl doesn’t take too long in getting up to speed on his new portfolio.

 

Executive director Sherry Lewis says there are too many pressing issues for Aboriginal women right now that need to be addressed.

 

She says, first and foremost, is the matter of how the government should address the exemption of human rights on reserve.

 

Lewis says the government also has to remedy issues concerning matrimonial property on reserves.

 

She says her group will be keenly watching to see how and when Strahl will act on the issues.