Scott Reid Supports Increased Freedom on Reserves

Ottawa – Recently, the House of Commons voted to send a private member’s bill to committee that would increase freedom for on-reserve First Nations by making changes to the Indian Act. The vote was 156 for the measure, 129 against. No members of the Liberal Party supported the bill.

Local MP Scott Reid voted to advance the legislation, saying that living on a reserve shouldn’t mean you have to ask permission from the government for everyday activities.

“The idea that you should have to go to some politician to get permission to give your children your possessions when you die is absurd in today’s day and age,” said Reid, “Our Conservative government has taken many steps towards helping on-reserve First Nations achieve more freedom and accountability, and this is another one in the right direction.”

Bill C-428 was brought forward by Conservative Rob Clarke, who is First Nations MP, and will make significant changes to the Indian Act. Currently, First Nations who live on reserves need government permission to draft wills and pass their property on to their heirs, to sell produce off-reserve, and to produce bylaws governing their communities. The bill will repeal these sections, allowing for greater freedom on-reserve. The Bill will also eliminate outdated sections of the legislation, like the ability of the government to create Residential Schools on reserve.

“My whole life I’ve thought unnecessary government intrusion is corrosive, and nowhere in Canada is that more apparent than on reserves. If you grow something and want to sell it, you should be able to. If you own something and want to pass it on to your children, you should be able to do so. I’m proud to support this measure, and to move towards a more fair Indian Act.”

For further information contact:

Blair Shumlich
Communications Assistant to Scott Reid, MP
613-947-2277

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