First Nation leaders from all 134 native communities across Ontario will gather at Couchiching next week for a conference and provincial election.
“It’s an opportunity for the chiefs to bring updates on what are the current issues,” explained Andrew Reuben, executive director of the Chiefs of Ontario.
The conference will run for four days beginning June 12, with the election for provincial chief slated June 15.
Current provincial chief Tom Bressette will be on hand to take part in the discussions, which will focus largely on governance.
“One of the major things we have to look at is restructuring our process, to generate a law-making process for our territories to make bylaws and things of that nature to provide governance,” Chief Bressette noted.
Bressette has served one term as Ontario chief and plans to seek re-election. So far, six other candidates have put their names forward, including Larry Sault, Earl Commanda, Charles Fox, Eugene Manitowabi, George Kakeway, and Goyce Kakejamic.
Other candidates may be nominated right up to the time of the vote. “Last year we did a traditional standing vote,” said Reuben.
Couchiching also will host an all-candidates’ session for the upcoming national election during the four-day conference.
Chief Bressette hinted at an announcement to be made during the conference that would see all proceeds from Casino Rama go to First Nations communities.
The conference, which was Grand Council Treaty #3’s turn to host, is expected to attract hundreds of visitors to the area.
“I know with 134 communities involved, it will bring a lot of economic prosperity to the area for the week. There should be a lot of First Nation people in attendance,” said Chief Bressette.
“We will warmly welcome all our fellow chiefs and visitors for the 26th-annual conference, and are extremely pleased that our First Nation was chosen as host,” said Couchiching Chief Chuck McPherson.
Last year’s conference was held in Batchewana.
Indian Affairs and Northern Development minister Robert Nault also is expected to attend the conference to discuss the fate of the Indian Commission of Ontario.
