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| June 5, 2001 Letter to INAC Minister concerning Resolution 03/01 – Confirmation of Inherent Rights |
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June 5, 2001 RE: RESOLUTION 03/01 - CONFIRMATION OF INHERENT RIGHTS Please find attached a copy of Resolution 03/01 passed at the Special Chiefs Assembly in Ottawa on May 1 & 2, 2001. This was the same meeting you attended to share your thoughts and answer questions on the proposed First Nations Governance Act. The Resolution does not deal directly with the Governance Bill. There is another Resolution on the Bill, which I will deal with under separate cover. Resolution 03/01 deals with the general topic of the inherent right of self-government and asserts a very positive First Nation position, based on original entitlements gifted by the Creator and protected by the Treaties. Against this background, the Resolution expresses real concern with the federal document entitled, “Canada’s Approach to Dealing with Section 35 Rights”. The document was apparently leaked and has been in circulation for at least a couple of months. It takes a restrictive and adversarial approach to the inherent right, as understood by First Nations. The Chiefs-in-Assembly are requesting an immediate clarification of the federal position on the inherent right, and First Nation rights in general. The Resolution makes it clear that many First Nation governments and organizations in Ontario may be uncomfortable continuing negotiation sets with Canada unless a suitable clarification is obtained. The Resolution calls for a federal response by June 1. This timing is no longer feasible. However, on behalf of the Chiefs, I would appreciate a substantive response some time before the All Ontario Chiefs Conference (AOCC) of June 26-28 in the Walpole First Nation territory. The nature of this response may affect discussions at the Assembly on related matters, such as the proposed First Nations Governance Act. I look forward to your reply. In the meantime, I encourage your officials to contact my office if any further background is required on the Resolution. Sincerely, CHIEFS OF ONTARIO Enclosure c.c. Ontario Political Confederacy |
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