Indian Act Changes

Bob Nault says his proposed changes to the Indian Act give power to the people.
The Federal Indian Affairs Minister says the First Nations Governance Act gives aboriginal band members a greater say over how their communities operate.
If the bill becomes law, First Nations will no longer be exempt from the Charter of Rights and Freedom.
Nault says other changes will give aboriginal bands the tools they need to grow their economies, and move away from the dependence on federal handouts.
But the Kenora-Rainy River MP says the overall result should be fewer powers for Ottawa, and giving the power back to the people.
Under the proposed changes, bands will be more accountable to band members for the money they spend.
Nault says the changes mark an important step toward aboriginal self-government.
(Broadcast News)