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INUVIK
Over the past few weeks, the Idle No More Movement has captured the country's attention, spurring constructive policy discussions while also drawing negative commentary.

But, aboriginal leaders in Inuvik say it doesn't matter so much what people are saying, the point is they're talking about the issues surrounding Bill C-45 and the lack of consultation by Prime Minister Stephen Harper.

"As long as there is dialogue happening, I think it's a good thing," said Norman Snowshoe, Gwich'in Tribal Council vice-president. "All this media attention, whether it be negative or positive, highlights the lack of treaty implementation by governments."

Herbert Blake Jr., chief of the Inuvik Native Band, echoed Snowshoe's statement, saying coverage of the movement has allowed protesters the chance to enlighten the general public.

"This movement is a way of helping to educate non-First Nations people about the challenges that First Nations people face and also to bring an awareness to the citizens of Canada about what this bill is going to do and how these changes are really going to have an impact on Canada in general," Blake said. "It's not only about First Nations people."

The Idle No More movement was started late last fall by four women from Saskatchewan in response to Bill C-45. The organizers feared the omnibus bill would mean sweeping changes to environmental protection, cultural protection and aboriginal rights.

"The bill opens up a lot more areas for development and there is huge concern about what impacts those are going to have on the aboriginal right to harvest and also private lands that were established through land claims agreements," explained Snowshoe.

Blake said he doesn't have a problem with there being more development, but he doesn't like the idea of projects being pushed ahead without any consideration for factors that impact the environment, people and infrastructure.

"I think Bill C-45 is clearly in conflict with some of the historic number treaties and modern day treaties, land claim agreements that have been agreed to by all parties," Blake said. "To have a bill that is in some ways usurping the authority over lands that are held by First Nations or land claim owners, that presents some challenges."

Bill C-45 contains a number of complex issues that should have been discussed and debated more before the bill was passed, he said. The Conservatives have a majority government and one has to respect that, he added, but at the same time there needs to be consultation. That's what democracy is all about, Blake said.

"At least give us the opportunity to present our comments and concerns. Allow us a voice. Hear us out because we're the ones that are going to have to live with all these things," he said, as a message to Harper.

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