Controversial Bill C-53 has had amendments adopted by the Indigenous and Northern Affairs (INAN) committee and will now move to third reading in the House of Commons.
The bill, which was introduced on 2023 National Indigenous Peoples Day, is an Act that is respecting the recognition of certain Métis governments in Alberta, Ontario and Saskatchewan, to give effect to treaties with those governments and to make consequential amendments to other Acts.
Six Nations Elected Council and many First Nations communities in Ontario have opposed the passing of the bill, stating the claims of organizations like the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) and others alike are false and believe their rights as First Nations peoples under the Indian Act are in jeopardy.
MNO responded to those opposed in a Feb. 6 news release.
“Bill C-53 does not impact the treaties, lands, rights or interests of First Nations in Ontario, or anywhere else.”
CJKS contacted Six Nations Elected Council for a comment but did not receive a response.
