Thank you very much, Madam Chair and members of the committee.
I want to acknowledge the fact that the proceedings are being held on traditional unceded Algonquin territory.
I also want to greet the other panellists this morning, and Grand Chief Norton of Kahnawake Mohawk Nation.
You heard earlier this week from Chief Rick O'Bomsawin of the Abenaki Nation and community of Odanak who presented his views on behalf of his community, understanding the case at hand, the Descheneaux case, originates in his community. This morning you will hear another point of view from another community within our region, and we understand that it's a very delicate matter, a matter that certainly is of concern to a majority of our nations, and it's been a concern for quite some time.
The sad part in all of this, and this is certainly the case in terms of identification, membership, and whatever you want to call it in the communities, is that often the government is directed by the courts. It's very sad that it has come to this, and I guess it puts in perspective the fact that too many times we seem to be cornered in a situation where there's a failure in the political process, which often leads us to the courts as the last resort.
As I said earlier, this is a very sensitive issue. Speaking on behalf of our region, we tried to facilitate meetings to deal with this in light of the court decision, understanding that as a regional entity or body, we tried to provide all the time and space needed for communities to express their points of view, and then convey the position to the government whenever possible. This is what we did following a consultation that was held in Montreal in September 2016, and we followed up with a letter to the Prime Minister in October of last year. The letter states clearly where we stand as a region, always trying to reflect and respect the positions of the different communities.
The last thing I'll say before I pass it over to Grand Chief Norton is, in spite of the different points of view, we can all agree—and this is the position we support—ultimately our communities and our leadership are the only ones who can exercise the authority of determining their membership, and this position is supported by all.
We will present a written statement to the committee before the end of the day tomorrow that will add to the comments I provided this morning.
Again, my apologies for not being there in person. I feel it is important for Grand Chief Norton to present there in person on behalf of his community and nation.
Thank you very much, Madam Chair.