Mercredi blames feds for poor health in First Nations

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Canada's most recognized Native leader confronted federal, provincial and territorial officials over First Nations health in face-to-ace meetings earlier this month.

The Grand Chief of the Assembly of First Nations blamed the federal government for creating and maintaining poor health standards in Native communities.

Ottawa's "closed-eye policies and outright refusals" to respect Aboriginal rights to self-government has led to wide-spread suffering and despair in Native communities, said Ovide Mercredi.

"The co-operation of the federal government is vital to improving the level of health status for First Nations. But as the original inhabitants of this country, we do not require your permission or approval to care for our nations, communities or individuals."

Mercredi told federal., provincial and territorial health ministers and Aboriginal leaders Feb. 9 that systematic poverty has prevented the First Nations from addressing poor health conditions.

The average life expectancy of an Indian is 10 years less than the national average, he said. Infant mortality is almost two-and-a-half times higher and post-natal deaths are four times higher than the national average.

Diseases like diabetes and tuberculosis are ravaging the First Nations, he added. Suicide rates are also six times the national average.

Federal Health Minister Diane Marleau agreed to consult with Aboriginal leaders from Canada's five national Native organizations on the development of a national Native health policy. The discussion would revolve around 15 recommendations made by the Tripartite Working Group on Aboriginal Health.

Examining Native health issues is a satisfactory step in improving Indian health, Mercredi said. But the real concern will be over funding.

The issue of cost, however, was not settled. A spokesperson for the department of health said cost-carrying will not be decided until the details of a Native health policy are worked out.

Federal and provincial governments have long used the jurisdiction over Native health care as a means to deny proper funding for services, Mercredi said. Ottawa could correct that by finally recognizing health as a treaty right.