FNTC Chief Commissioner C.T. (Manny) Jules Responds to Federal Support in Budget 2012-2013 for First Nation Property Ownership Legislation

KAMLOOPS, BC, March 29, 2012 /CNW/ - "Today's announcement of federal support for First Nation Property Ownership legislation is historic. It is a proud day for the First Nations who have led this initiative, and all Canadians who want to address the problem of First Nation disadvantage.

This legislation will allow participating First Nations to help themselves.  First Nations that choose to participate will own their lands, and their jurisdiction on these lands will be confirmed in perpetuity. They will be able to make decisions at the speed of business.

The 19th century Indian Act legislated us out of the economy and took ownership of our lands. It is time to leave the 19th century behind. It is time to legislate our way back.

This legislation will mean that we will have the same property and land title systems on our lands that the rest of Canada takes for granted. It will mean we can obtain mortgages, build equity, finance businesses and transfer wealth to our children just like other Canadians.  This is an opportunity to free the imaginations of our entrepreneurs, raise our productivity, escape dependency and begin to restore our culture of independence.

This initiative has been developed by the First Nations Tax Commission working with a number of proponent First Nations. We look forward to working with Parliament on the development of this legislation over the coming months. To paraphrase my ancestors, with this legislation we will help each other to be good and great."

Tina Pelletier
Communications Officer
First Nations Tax Commission 
[phone]
[email protected]