For immediate release
February 3, 2023
Manitoba RCMP Abandon First Nations by Failing to Enforce Band By-Laws a Violation of Treaty Terms
‘Our community is in crisis,’ says Pimicikamak Chief David Monias
Treaty Five Territory, Cross Lake, MB – Pimicikamak Chief David Monias says by not enforcing band by-laws passed by previous Chief and Council the RCMP are violating terms of Treaty 5. ‘The Treaty is clear on this issue. It says that:
‘Her Majesty further agrees with Her said Indians, that within the boundary of Indian reserves, until otherwise determined by Her Government of the Dominion of Canada, no intoxicating liquor shall be allowed to be introduced or sold, and all laws now in force, or hereafter to be enacted to preserve Her Indian subjects inhabiting the reserves, or living elsewhere within Her North-West Territories, from the evil influence of the use of intoxicating liquors, shall be strictly enforced.’
“Our council along with the Chief passed a by-law in July of 1985 that has been declared legal and law within the boundaries of our First Nation community but it hasn’t been enforced by the RCMP,” said Monias. “A lot of our social problems stem from alcohol and drugs and we gave the RCMP the tools to assist us but so far there has been no enforcement. How long are we supposed to wait?”
Band by-laws are a law of Canada and fall under the jurisdiction of the Attorney General of Canada. The Cross Lake Band of Indians/Pimicikimak Cree Nation are demanding that the RCMP enforce of the intoxicants prohibition by-law under section 85.1 of the Indian Act.
“There is a treaty obligation that the Crown must enforce First Nation enacted intoxicants prohibitions,” said Monias. “There is no question that the tool exists and by Treaty obligation and as representatives of the Crown the RCMP must uphold our by-laws. We can’t wait any longer.”
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For more information:
Philip Paul-Martin, Communications Officer
Phone: 204-612-1284
Email: [email protected]
