First Nations Band Chiefs Should Publish Salaries: MP Reid

Ottawa – This week, Stephen Harper’s Conservative government unveiled a new bill that will require First Nations chiefs and councillors to disclose their salaries.  Local MP Scott Reid was quick to support this measure, which was one of the planks in the Conservatives’ election platform last May.

This bill will also require First Nations band councils to publish annual financial statements verified by an auditor.  It will increase transparency and accountability in the use of public funds for First Nations communities, and increase openness and trust among band councils and members, and all Canadians.

“All Canadians deserve transparency from their governments,” commented Scott Reid. “Mayors, Reeves, MPs, MPPs, and Ministers all disclose their salaries and expenses to the public – the people who elect them.  Chiefs and councillors for first nations shouldn’t be any different.”

By Thursday, one-time Liberal Leadership candidate and current MP Carolyn Bennett was calling this measure “racist,” and “paternalistic.”

Scott Reid believes it is simply unacceptable to exempt First Nations governments from doing the same kinds of things that every other government must do – report honestly to the public that elects them.

“Democracy demands accountability. If we, the citizens are going to choose our government, it is imperative that we have all the facts on the people we put there to make sure they’re doing a good job”

“This is as true for First Nations bands as it is for every township election, every provincial election, and every federal election.”

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For further information contact:

Phil Joannou
Communications Assistant to Scott Reid, MP
613-947-2277

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