By Rosalind Russell – Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief Reg Niganobe is relieved with the recent Federal Court ruling on policing funding agreements.
Grand Council Chief Reg Niganobe says the Federal Court has ordered funds to flow to the First Nation police services that were without funding since March 31st and were on the verge of ceasing operations.
He adds while this is welcomed news, they continue to look forward to a time when First Nation police services are deemed essential by the federal government, which he emphasizes has a legal obligation to recognize and uphold the rights of First Nations.
Niganobe adds the most recent proposed policing agreements drafted by Public Safety Canada prohibited First Nation Policing Services from establishing specialized units such as domestic assault and other major crime units, also stating First Nations are unable to challenge or amend these agreements.
He says they will now focus their attention on these specialized services negotiating with the government for equitable rights.
Photo: Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief Reg Niganobe – By Ryan Peplinskie