QUESTION PERIOD — Ministry of Indigenous Services
Entitlement to Indian Registration
May 7, 2026
Welcome, Minister Gull-Masty.
This question is from the Southern Chiefs’ Organization Inc., or SCO, representing 33 Anishinaabe and Dakota Nations, who have been clear that anything short of fully eliminating the second-generation cut-off perpetuates the very discrimination that Bill S-2 claims to fix. Will the minister commit today to a public timeline for its full elimination and confirm what resources are being allocated to clear the registration backlog that is already leaving thousands of First Nations children waiting?
Thank you for having me today. It’s a pleasure to be here once again. It’s really an honour to address the Senate and answer some of the questions being presented today.
I’m once again here to answer questions on Bill S-2. This has been an ongoing conversation across the country. I’ve heard many different questions in the realm of what Bill S-2 looks to do.
As I said during my last appearance before the committee, we have expedited the collaborative consultation process, asking communities not whether we should address the second-generation cut-off but how.
I’m always listening in all spaces, not just in that collaborative consultation process but to individuals who reach out to me. I have heard the spectrum of concerns from individuals, from those wishing to have a one-parent rule to those who are looking to ensure that self-determination is part of the conversation. This is something I really want to reiterate today: That self-determination component and ensuring that you have the authority not only to recognize but also to define how your citizenship comes into place. It is a critical part of this conversation that we continue to have.
I’m encouraged by some of the statements and proposals that I received, but I feel that it is the necessary work of our ministry —
Thank you.
Co-development is your government’s stated standard. Can the minister confirm whether SCO and its 33 nations have been formally engaged on the implementation framework for Bill S-2 and not simply briefed after decisions are made?
I’ve had a few interesting conversations in various places. I’ve spoken to the Grand Chief of this region. He’s asked some questions. They’ve been clear on what they are interested in doing in Manitoba. They are very favourable to one avenue.
As part of that conversation, I’ve also had the opportunity to raise my questions with them. There are clearly other communities that take a different position. Having that conversation on how you find the balance between the two positions that communities have taken is part of the work that we’re reflecting. While I can’t tell you off the top of my head the official list of everybody who has participated, I’m more than willing to provide you with details in a written format —
Thank you, minister.
