Mr. Speaker, aboriginal communities in Ontario strongly oppose the HST. The Union of Ontario Indians and the United Chiefs and Councils of Manitoulin have been trying for months to meet with the Minister of Finance to discuss the loss of point of sale exemptions under the new tax. The Premier of Ontario also wants to meet with the federal government and first nations on this issue.
Chief Shining Turtle from Whitefish River First Nation has been told flat out to stop contacting the Minister of Finance's office regarding the HST. Staffers of the Minister of Finance and the Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development called to tell him to stop sending emails. Then they had the gall to hang up on him. This is no way to treat aboriginal people, especially chiefs.
Forcing the HST on first nations infringes on their treaty and inherent rights. Since the federal government triggered changes to point of sale exemptions, it has a legal duty to consult and accommodate first nations people.
I call on the government to show respect and ask that it meet with the Union of Ontario Indians and the province to resolve this matter.