Statement on developments at the First Nations University of Canada

OTTAWA , Feb. 5 /CNW Telbec/ - James Turk , Executive Director of the Canadian Association of University Teachers, has issued the following statement on the situation at the First Nations University of Canada:

"The Canadian Association of University Teachers is heartened by news reports that the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations' Legislative Assembly has dissolved the First Nations University Board of Governors and indicated it would restructure the Board along lines recommended by the FSIN's All-Chiefs' Task Force.

Implementation of governance changes (including restructuring the Board) will require the FSIN to amend the First Nations University Act. We have written to FSIN Chief Guy Lonechild today to congratulate him on the leadership he has shown on this issue and to seek more specific information on the FSIN's decisions and plans.

Once concrete steps have been taken to implement the necessary governance changes, CAUT will be in a position to consider the possibility of lifting censure of the University and to join with the FSIN in lobbying the Provincial Government to restore funding."

For further information: James Turk, Executive Director of the Canadian Association of University Teachers at mobile [phone]