Draude Handed Aboriginal Cabinet Portfolios
Thursday, November 22, 2007 at 14:04
Saskatchewan’s new First Nations and Metis Relations Minister is also the new Minister of Northern Affairs.
June Draude is one of six founding members of the Saskatchewan Party to be named to the new cabinet.
Last year, the Yellow Quill First Nation named her an honourary elder for her work with First Nations.
During her terms in opposition, she served as the Critic for First Nations and Métis Affairs — as well as Social Services, Youth, Culture and Recreation, and Women’s Issues.
She was also a member of the Special Committee to Prevent the Sexual Abuse of Children through the Sex Trade.
As well, Draude has made a name for herself for her work related to Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, crystal meth and youth addictions.
FSIN Chief Lawrence Joseph says he is excited about the prospect of working with Draude.
Joseph says she knows the issues and has been available and visible for First Nations.
He calls her appointment a “great start”.
However, he says First Nations issues cross all ministry lines — and it’s time for government departments to stop the tendency of being unaware of what other departments are doing.
Joseph also hopes every minister involved in the duty-to-consult issue will have the tools to do the job effectively and efficiently.
He adds it will take significant resources for the new premier to follow through on his promise to honour Supreme Court rulings on the issue.
Meanwhile, Meadow Lake MLA Jeremy Harrison was bypassed for cabinet, but he has been named one of the new government’s seven legislative secretaries.
Harrison will report to Energy and Resources Minister Bill Boyd regarding northern resources and oilsands development.