A candidate for chief of the Lac La Ronge Indian Band says if elected his top priority will be education.
Eugene Charlie Mirasty is one of six candidates seeking the La Ronge band’s top job.
Mirasty has been an educator for 19 years and is also a journeyman carpenter.
He said education is the key link to prepare people for future success.
“Education is very important,” Mirasty said. “It builds a lot of academic skills in people so that they can proceed to find a job or a career.”
He said another area he would target funding toward is recreation for young people.
“I think if young people stay in recreation, or stay in some kind of sport, they’re going to have a better life. It will keep them out of trouble but it would also give them the opportunity to travel all over the place and meet people. I would like to invest in our children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.”
Another goal is providing more employment opportunities for band members.
Mirasty said one way to do this is by supporting local artists.
“We have some local artists that are very talented and their art is beautiful. And it takes a long time to make some of this art. I think we should be helping them promote and sell some of their arts and crafts. It would create employment.”
Advance voting began Monday online and will continue until May 25.
Band members will then have the opportunity to vote in person May 25-26.
(PHOTO: Eugene Charlie Mirasty is one of six candidates running for chief of the Lac La Ronge Indian Band. Photo courtesy of Eugene Charlie Mirasty Facebook page.)