Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I would like to take the opportunity to make some comments on an issue that was raised in this House the other day. My honourable colleague for Thebacha asked a series of questions on November 3, 2000 to the Minister of Education, Culture and Employment on the need for a standardized definition of Metis. I respect my colleague's right to represent the wishes of his constituents and press the government on this issue.
However, Mr. Speaker, my constituents are concerned that the standardized definition of Metis would jeopardize the emerging relationships between the Metis and the federal and territorial governments in regions other than the South Slave. This is not appropriate.
As aboriginal people, the Metis' main relationship and outstanding issues rest with the federal government. Mr. Speaker, it is clear that the definition of a Metis cannot be made without the participation of Metis organizations and the federal government. Indeed some Metis governments are still wrestling with the definition of Metis.
However, this government should not be put in a position to predetermine or prejudice the outcome. I urge the Government of the Northwest Territories to carefully consider their actions in establishing a definition of who is a Metis. A definition that suits the purposes of one claimant group cannot be used to define all of the other Metis claims in the Northwest Territories. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.