Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, we have a serious issue in the communities with respect to the property taxes being levied against aboriginal peoples and the negative impact it is causing to those First Nations people who are refusing to pay. Mr. Speaker, many of these First Nations people are refusing to pay because of the fact that land ownership is in question on non-settled claim areas. As we are all aware, the Government of Canada recognizes and acknowledges that First Nations people have rights distinct from the non-aboriginal population of this country. This is confirmed through various historical treaties signed by Canada through the land claims agreements entered into and through Section 35 of the Constitution which provides protection of treaty rights.

Mr. Speaker, although the federal government recognizes First Nations rights, there is continued disagreement on what those rights are. Taxation is one of them. What I am attempting to convey here is that many First Nations people residing in the communities are being forced into making a decision on whether or not to exercise their rights as a First Nations person. These very people are being forced into a very difficult situation while at the same time trying to earn a living in order to provide for life's necessities. They have to decide to exercise the rights of the First Nations people such as not paying property taxes. They are then penalized and stopped from accessing various government programs.

Mr. Speaker, with ongoing negotiations between the federal government and First Nations, which include negotiations with respect to land ownership and taxation matters, this government should consider the position of those First Nations people. We must keep in mind that significant agreements have been signed by the Deh Cho, such as the interim land withdrawal and interim resource management agreement, and such agreements are taken seriously by First Nations and viewed as an important step towards resolving outstanding issues within Canada.

Mr. Speaker, considering the complexity of issues facing First Nations people in our communities, I would recommend that this government consider a moratorium on the imposition of property taxes until such issues between First Nations and Canada are finalized or, as an alternative, set aside in trust, any property taxes paid until issues are dealt with. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

---Applause