Native leader miffed by Prentice's ‘snub' at meeting
HALIFAX — A native chief says federal Indian Affairs Minister Jim Prentice is showing disregard for the concerns of Aboriginal Peoples by not attending their annual meeting.
Rick Simon of the Assembly of First Nations calls the minister's absence at the three-day meeting in Halifax a “snub” that shows native issues are not his priority.
Rod Bruinooge, a parliamentary secretary to the minister, addressed the meeting today because Mr. Prentice is in Belgium attending ceremonies to mark the 90th anniversary of the Battle of Passchendaele where his great-uncle fought in the First World War.
Mr. Prentice's office said he is also in Belgium to help honour Cpl. FrancisP Pegahmagabow, Canada's most decorated aboriginal soldier who was recognized for his service at Passchendaele.
Delegates at the meeting are examining a handful of issues, including last month's national day of action, land claims settlements, education and aboriginal health.
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