SASKATOON (June 21, 1997) -- Chief C.T. (Manny) Jules, Chairman of the Indian Taxation Advisory Board (ITAB) and Mr. Sakej Henderson, Research Director of the Native Law Centre at the University of Saskatchewan today unveiled the first issue of the First Nations Gazette, a mechanism which will ensure the formal publication of First Nation laws. This announcement, made on National Aboriginal Day, is part of the Native Law Centre’s 25th anniversary celebrations of its Program of Legal Studies for Native People.
Chief Jules was very pleased with the launch of the first issue and its significance for First Nations. "I believe the First Nations Gazette represents another milestone in our quest for self-government. Clearly, the dignity, status and legitimacy of our laws and law-making process will be enhanced by this publication."
"The publication of the First Nations Gazette is a significant step in our relentless efforts for self-determination and respect for Aboriginal legal systems in Canada. It is an indispensable and practical tool," said Mr. Henderson.
The initial focus of the Gazette will be on property taxation matters, with a view to widening public and First Nation acceptance of property taxation initiatives and to assist First Nations with enforcement of their tax laws by ensuring both regular notice is provided and that a register of all current property tax bylaws is widely available. Future issues of the Gazette may also include decisions from assessment appeal boards and other relevant administrative tribunals, and provide a forum for initiatives undertaken in First Nation law-making.
The mandate of the Indian Taxation Advisory Board (ITAB) includes assisting First Nations in increasing the respect for and related enforcement of their taxation powers, and exploring and implementing mechanisms to ensure First Nation bylaws are properly and adequately promulgated, and that the content of the bylaws is accessible to the public.
The Native Law Centre at the University of Saskatchewan was created in 1975 to assist in the development of the law and the legal system in Canada in ways that preserve and sustain Aboriginal and Treaty rights. Another goal of the Native Law Centre is to make information on Aboriginal legal issues widely available and to engage in scholarly research on Aboriginal law issues.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed April 30, 1997, that formalized a partnership between ITAB and the Native Law Centre to publish the First Nations Gazette.
BACKGROUND
For further information:
Bruno Bonneville Sakej Henderson ITAB Native Law Centre (613) 954-6764 (306) 966-6189