Martin Makes Appeal To Aboriginal Voters

Martin Makes Appeal To Aboriginal Voters

Wednesday, January 18, 2006 at 15:54

 

 

Liberal candidates from across the province attended a major rally at Wanuskewin Heritage Park in Saskatoon yesterday.

 

The event was highlighted by Liberal leader Paul Martin’s entrance, and his strong endorsement of northern candidate Gary Merasty.

 

Martin said Merasty’s experience in education and economic development is just what’s needed in the area,

 

Martin went on to say that Merasty would not only make a fine representative in Parliament, he would also likely have a major influence on government policy in Ottawa.

 

Meanwhile, openly challenged the Conservatives for their refusal to endorse and accept the commitments made in the Kelowna Accord in its current form.

 

Merasty called on First Nations and Metis voters to unite behind the Liberals.

 

He said the party will work with Aboriginal communities to find the solutions that work best for them.

 

Martin openly expressed doubts the Conservatives are truly ready to compensate former residents of the boarding school in Ile-a-la-Crosse.

 

Martin noted the Tories have made it abundantly clear they don’t support the Kelowna Accord in its present form.

 

He claimed that could also mean no money for former students hoping to be compensated.

 

As well, Martin disputed Jack Layton’s assertion the Liberals are stalling over specific land claims. He said wording in the Kelowna Accord indicates the claims will be dealt with swiftly.