I fall under a very different set of circumstances right now with my private member's bill. As a first nations man, I have a unique opportunity. If we look back, three or four years ago the Indian Act wasn't on the radar. My purpose in introducing this private member's bill is to get the discussion going from a federal standpoint. That's what I believe is happening now. We've heard everyone talking about it in the back rooms, but no one has ever wanted to bring it forward and talk about it here in committee. I feel this is the ultimate place for this to be discussed, at formal meetings, where all governments—provincial, federal, and first nations—and opposition can hear it. This is a place where it can be honestly and openly discussed.
This legislation actually calls for somebody to report to Parliament on a process toward replacing the Indian Act. Currently in the Indian Act there's nothing that mandates the federal government to talk about the Indian Act and make changes in partnership with first nations. How do you feel about that? Do you think we should simply be maintaining the status quo, without any idea of allowing first nations to come forward and say, “Hey, we have an idea that would provide an opportunity for first nations to progress, new legislation that will help through economic opportunities”? How do you feel about that?