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SKATIN, B.C. (August 26, 2007) - The Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-status Indians, ended his first full week in his new portfolio by joining In-SHUCK-ch Nation in a celebration of its culture and achievements at the first annual In-SHUCK-ch Days in Skatin, British Columbia.
“It’s a privilege to join friends and neighbours in my constituency of Chilliwack-Fraser Canyon as Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development,” said Minister Strahl following a tour of In-SHUCK-ch exhibits and demonstrations on Saturday, August 25.
During his visit, Minister Strahl signed the Agreement in Principle (AIP) negotiated under the BC treaty process by In-SHUCK-ch, British Columbia and Canada. Canada’s formal approval of the AIP concludes Stage 4 of In-SHUCK-ch Nation negotiations. Negotiators are now working toward a Final Agreement.
Minister Strahl congratulated the In-SHUCK-ch leaders and all treaty negotiators for their commitment, vision and perseverance. “This is an important milestone in negotiations with In-SHUCK-ch Nation as the AIP sets out the basis for a Final Agreement which will provide In-SHUCK-ch with tools and resources to support a strong and vibrant community,” stated Minister Strahl. “A treaty will also bring certainty with regard to In-SHUCK-ch Nation’s rights and title throughout their traditional territory. Benefits of the treaty will be felt by all area residents and throughout British Columbia as a whole.”
Upon his appointment as Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Metis and Non-status Indians, Minister Strahl immediately embarked on a far-reaching tour that included destinations in BC, Manitoba and Quebec. His very first act was to meet with former residential school students, while in Winnipeg.
“My intent with each of my initial meetings this early in my tenure was to listen,” stated Minister Strahl.
“Canada’s New Government has made progress on key Aboriginal and Northern issues and I am committed to continuing the work to speed up the resolution of land claims, complete self-government negotiations and honour treaties. We must also remain focussed on improving educational outcomes, addressing housing and infrastructure concerns and ensuring safe drinking water. Finally, I look forward to delivering on our commitment to provide access to human rights protection for First Nations people living on reserve - access denied for far too long, and to putting in place legislation to deal with matrimonial real property on reserve.
“I commend each and every individual leader with whom I met for their vision and dedication to build stronger communities and better lives for their members. With the momentum built this last week, I look forward to continuing the dialogue and continuing to deliver real results for First Nations, Inuit, Métis and Northern people to the benefit of all Canadians,” said the Minister.
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For more information, please contact:
Minister's Office
Ted Yeomans
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable Chuck Strahl
819-997-0002
Media Relations
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
819-953-1160
