Native Group Up In Arms Over Accountability Act

Native Group Up In Arms Over Accountability Act

Monday, April 10, 2006 at 12:57

The Union of Ontario Indians is raising the alarm over a piece of legislation the federal Conservatives are apparently getting ready to introduce this week.

Grand Chief John Beaucage says a section of the new Federal Accountability Act shows disrespect to First Nations.

According to media reports, the act will include new powers to allow the Auditor General to examine First Nations communities’ books to determine whether taxpayers are getting fair value from federal cash transfers.

He says if this becomes reality, it will be another example of a government adopting a “we know what’s best for you” attitude regarding First Nations.

Beaucage notes that even Auditor General Sheila Fraser has said that First Nations are overburdened with audits and reports they must submit to government.