FSIN Upset With Talk Of End To Education Grants

FSIN Upset With Talk Of End To Education Grants

Monday, January 26, 2009 at 15:57

A vice-chief with the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations says he’s worried the federal government may be considering drastic changes to First Nations education.

Lyle Whitefish says he’s heard rumours that Indian Affairs wants to hand control over the post-secondary student support program to either the Canada Student Loans Program or the Millenium Scholarships group.

He says Indian Affairs Minister Chuck Strahl recently confirmed to him that the matter is under review.

Whitefish also says replacing First Nations education grant money with loans would be a violation of treaty rights.

According to Whitefish, the Marvin Yellowbird case clearly shows the government is legally obligated to support treaty education.