First day of Ministers' Conference

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Talks split on self-government

"I see that a few of the premiers are making valued efforts to reach a solution and we applaud them for this," said Georges Erasmus, representing the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), while making his opening remarks at the First Ministers' Conference in Ottawa, March 26.

The first day of talks saw five of the provinces premier's in favour of an agreement being made to entrench Aboriginal rights in the Constitution of Canada, however, Alberta, Saskatchewan, British Columbia and Newfoundland were against entrenchment without first defining self-government.

Quebec refused to sit in on the constitutional talks but supported entrenchment of Aboriginal rights. "The government of Quebec is in favour of the recognition in the constitution of the principle of government autonomy of Native people in the framework of agreements to be negotiated with the government involved," said a spokesman on behalf of Premier Bourrassa.

Nick Sibbeston, government leader for the Northwest Territories said there must be an amendment to "our constitution, recognizing Aboriginal self-government.

"Aboriginal self-government is something to be welcomed and encouraged."

Leader of the government of the Yukon, Tony Penikett, stated that since 1981, there was a promise made to the Aboriginal people to "recognize equity and justice."

"Now is the time to keep that promise. Aboriginal rights must have a foundation as women's rights, media rights and Elders rights," stated Penikett.

Prince Edward Island Premier Joe Ghiz commented that the constitution offers some protection and stated that hew as supportive of the constitution being amended to enable Aboriginal people's to deal in an effective matter with government.

"I would like to see it completed and completed at this conference."

Ghiz also introduced an idea where there could be a "Sunset Clause" on a five or six year plan, that would grant self-government to Aboriginal people "and if it did not work out, then they (government) could reverse it."

The talks continue and Windspeaker will have full coverage of the FMC next week.