Intertribal Life Newspaper -

OTTAWA, Ont.-In mid-October, the Supreme Court of Canada ruled concerning the Mikisew Cree First Nation, stating that the federal government does not need to consult with First Nations before tabling legislation. Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Perry Bellegarde says Canada still has a duty to ensure its laws respect and honor First Nations rights and title.

"Today's decision is disappointing, but it does reaffirm the federal government's duty to uphold the honor of the Crown, and that means respecting First Nations rights in any legislation," said Bellegarde. "The court itse...