How Much Of The Billions Do The Grass Roots See?

John Ivison: Changes in the Ottawa-First Nations relationship must go both ways

Posted: July 20, 2009, 4:59 PM by NP Editor

Members of Parliament demand respect because they have been chosen by “the people” — a contention that often does not stand up to scrutiny. The vast majority represent safe seats and, in reality, they were elected by their riding associations — typically, 100 or so party activists. But at least voters get the chance in a general election to have the final say. This is not the case in tomorrow’s election to replace Phil Fontaine as National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) — a process that will nominally be decided by 633 chiefs, without any consultation with the grassroots.

The winner requires the support of 60% of the 400 or so chiefs who are likely to make the trip to Calgary. One native politician from Manitoba said he was surprised at the lack of interest on the ground. “I think there are a number of chiefs who are so disillusioned that they won’t even go to Calgary,” he said.

Despite concerns about the legitimacy of a national leader who may end up being elected to represent 750,000 aboriginal Canadians by fewer than 300 people, the role of National Chief is likely to become increasingly important to all Canadians. The AFN is the conduit for relations between the federal government and Canada’s First Nations at a time when they are set to play an ever more prominent role in the national debate, on files ranging from resource extraction to labour market supply.

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Focus on First Nations

Metro is focusing on First Nations and Aboriginal news, community issues, arts and culture leading up to the Assembly of First Nations convention.

Chief's role important for all Canadians

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Prime Minister Stephen Harper and other MPs listen as Assembly of First Nations National Chief Phil Fontaine addresses the House of Commons on June 11, 2008.

The candidates vying to succeed Grand Chief Phil Fontaine pretty much agree that economic development is the key to prosperity for Canada's native people. Many others, however, fear the cost.