SEPTEMBER 30, 2008 - As Ontario emerges as a key battleground in determining the next Parliament, First Nations issues, according to Ontario Regional Chief Angus Toulouse, have the potential to affect results on Election Day.

"Whether it's resolving land claims fairly, addressing First Nation interests in resource development, or simply supporting the rights of all to clean drinking water, safe housing, basic infrastructure and schooling, there are critical economic issues at stake for all Ontarians."

Ontario Regional Chief, Angus Toulouse, was joined today by Grand Chiefs and Chiefs comprising the Ontario First Nation Political Confederacy to address specific concerns and appeal for direct action and consideration in the remaining days of the campaign.

No where in this province do people suffer the consequences of Government inaction and failed policy efforts more than in First Nation communities. When you combine this reality with the fact that there are at least 10 ridings in Ontario with a significant First Nation population and many of those ridings were won by a very slim majority in 2006, First Nation interests may factor into this election more than ever before.

"Just as we have been ignored in the past, politicians now seem blind to the opportunity that engaging our people in solutions for the future presents", commented Regional Chief Angus Toulouse. "Not dealing with First Nation issues, not addressing the clear obligations to consult and accommodate First Nations interests will cost Ontario a great deal".

"It is really frustrating because our communities, with a huge youthful population should be the key consideration of Canada's economic plans for the future. Yet, with a funding base that declines every year and results in far less on average for every First Nation child for basic programs such as education, our people can not be positioned to be part of the solution and part of the future they deserve." Regional Chief Toulouse went on to say that "rising rates of crime and suicide among the youth are a direct consequence of the lack of opportunity our youth can access. We, as First Nation leaders, are grappling with these challenges every day and we need the governments to do their part - to ensure fairness first and foremost and join us in building healthy and prosperous communities in the future."

The First Nation leadership concluded by encouraging all candidates to consider First Nation issues in the remaining days of the campaign. Moreover, "we ask all Canadians to reflect on the value of fairness and the requirements for future opportunity as they engage candidates and make choices on October 14, 2008."

First Nations have constitutionally protected rights that recognize them as one of the founding peoples of Canada and they deserve to be respected. Canada cannot make progress on our issues without us and we are seeking a working partnership with whoever forms the next government.

In the final days of the campaign, First Nations leaders hope that the national debates include consideration of First Nation issues. Solid commitments to both the long-term need for genuine reconciliation as well as immediate relief for those communities, in particular in the remote and northern communities, who face ever worsening conditions and escalating costs, are needed.

The Chiefs of Ontario represents 133 First Nation communities located within the Province of Ontario. The Chiefs of Ontario is the coordinating office providing a unified voice and political leadership on regional, provincial and national priorities affecting First Nation people. Political organizations comprising the Chiefs of Ontario include Nishnawbe-Aski Nation, the Anishinabek Nation / Union of Ontario Indians, Grand Council Treaty # 3, Association of Iroquois & Allied Indians and Independent First Nations.

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For more information please contact:

Roger Jones (613) 327-6736
Policy Advisor