QUESTION PERIOD — Crown-Indigenous Relations
Whitecap Dakota Nation / Wapaha Ska Dakota Oyate
October 10, 2024
Senator Gold, I was Treaty Commissioner in Saskatchewan 20 years ago during the embryonic discussions between the Whitecap Dakota First Nation and the Government of Canada about adhering to Treaty 6.
Following the recent passing of Bill C-51, I reminded both parties that in order for this relationship to flourish, two principles have to be in place: the honour of the Crown and the honour of the First Nations. No one can call into question the honour of the First Nations in getting to this place now. It will be up to the minister to ensure the honour of the Crown and the honour of federal officials.
Senator Gold, would you please ask the government to continue to uphold the honour of the Crown by expediting a mandate for negotiations to begin as soon as possible on the modern treaty?
Thank you for your question, senator, and for your past involvement and your continued advocacy on this.
My office raised this concern with the minister after yesterday’s Question Period. I’m still awaiting an answer, but I will continue to raise it with the minister. This government is committed to doing the right thing in discharging its obligations and to be an honourable partner in a nation-to-nation relationship. I will continue to press and raise this with the minister at every opportunity.
Senator Gold, the Whitecap Dakota First Nation has been ready to negotiate for years. Time is of the essence. The Whitecap Dakota are losing patience. Expectations are high. Promises have been made. Immediate action is required. Will the Government of Canada have a mandate to begin negotiating by November 15, 2024?
Thank you for the question. I’m not in a position to comment on any possible timelines, but I repeat that the government is committed to working alongside the Whitecap Dakota to advance their shared priorities, and the government supports their vision of a better future for their community.
