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NORTHWEST TERRITORIES
Delegates at the Dene National assembly are demanding action from the federal government.

The number one priority coming out of the assembly was to draft a letter to Supreme Court Justice Beverley McLachlin asking for advice on how to best get the government to acknowledge the rights of First Nations, Dene National Chief Bill Erasmus said.

Erasmus said he believes the federal government is ignoring laws enshrining aboriginal rights, especially when it comes to proper consultation with aboriginal groups.

Also mentioned among the national assembly's six resolutions was strong opposition to the recently-passed Bill C-38. Erasmus said restructuring of consultations processes outlined in the bill will further undermine strained relationship between the Government of Canada and First Nations governments.

"The law says we are a government and (the federal government) has said we are a government. Then treat us as governments," he said.

Other resolutions passed during the Dene National Assembly, held in Whati from July 2 to 6, include a commitment to help Deline pass the Great Bear Lake Water Strategy and supporting Lutsel K'e and Parks Canada in the development of Thaidene Nene.

Erasmus, who recently ran for position of Assembly of First Nations national chief, placed third in the election race. Incumbent Shawn Atleo won the election.

- with files from Lyndsay Herman

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