Senators Hear From Strahl About New Claims Process

Thursday, May 29, 2008 at 14:53

 

 

Canada’s Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs says the land claims process under an independent tribunal may still take years, but it will be faster than what it would take without the tribunal.

 

Chuck Strahl was speaking last night before the Standing Senate Committee on Aboriginal Peoples about Bill C-30.

 

The legislation establishes an independent tribunal made up of superior court judges to assess land claims and award compensation of up to $150 million per claim.

 

There was a concern during the meeting that the claims process would still take years.

 

Strahl says it is a complex process, so it may take time — but he says it should still be faster than the alternative.

 

Assembly of First Nations National Chief Phil Fontaine also spoke at the committee meeting.

 

Fontaine says this bill will give First Nations the proper funding to enable them to actually bring claims forward.

 

He also says he is optimistic that funding will be reviewed throughout the process to ensure First Nations always have enough resources.

 

The legislation was adopted by the House of Commons earlier this month, and is now being reviewed at the Senate level.