Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, once again I want to raise the issue of taxation on First Nations people. Mr. Speaker, Treaties 8 and 11 state, "Her Majesty agrees to pay the salaries of such teachers to instruct the children of said Indians." Because of this inclusion in the treaties, Mr. Speaker, concern has been raised by my constituents in my riding on the matter of financial responsibility for Indian education. The Government of Canada's responsibility for First Nations' education is clear to my constituents, thus the concern of why are they being taxed for education when it is a treaty right.
When this government taxes First Nations people and their property, a portion of this tax is identified for education. Is such taxation a contravention of both Treaties 8 and 11?
Mr. Speaker, taxation of First Nations people has and will continue to be a concern. The Government of Canada provides this government with transfer payments and powers upon which we are able to provide services within this jurisdiction. However, it is important that this government provide our constituents with a breakdown of what portions of funds are for First Nations; further, what amounts are allocated for various services such as education, health, housing, economic development, et cetera. Mr. Speaker, I will have questions for the Minister of Finance during question period.
---Applause