67.7 Disposition of Indian Lands
Whereas, The Government of British Columbia has announced its intention of requesting the Federal Government to abolish the Indian Reserve system by giving individual Indians full title to their lands and homes; and,
Whereas, It is questionable whether this is desirable in terms of the social and economic structure of the Indian communities and does not appear to be the wish of the Indians themselves; and,
Whereas, The Native Indians have not been consulted in this matter; and,
Whereas, The current policy of the Department of Indian Affairs is to assist in the development of reserve lands on a community or co-operative basis because of the higher economic potential; and,
Whereas, The Indian Act is now being studied by the Native Indian Bands of Canada and the Federal Department of Indian Affairs; and,
Whereas, The British Columbia Native Indians are presently negotiating with the Federal Government over land-rights payments; and,
Whereas, The Indian Act is protected by the Governor-General of Canada as a last authority; therefore,
RESOLVED, That the National Council of Women of Canada request the Government of Canada not to enter into an agreement with any province which will transfer authority for the administration of any Indian property or rights to a province; and that any changes in the administration, development or disposition of Indian lands be first discussed with the Native Indians and have their full support and be in accordance with a realistic plan for their economic and social development.