By Lasia Kretzel

FSIN Chief cautiously optimistic about new FN education plan

Feb 8, 2014 | 11:38 AM

Saskatchewan's top chief is cautiously optimistic about the federal government's plans for First Nations education.

Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations Chief Perry Bellegarde was at the high school on the Blood reserve in southern Alberta when Prime Minister Stephen Harper made the announcement on Friday.

Bellegarde said what he heard is very positive but the devil is in the details.

“We’ve all said no to the First Nations Education Act (and) the unilateral imposition of that act. No adequate consultation. Any legislation going forward has to make sure that there’s adequate, meaningful consultation and that First Nations people are really driving the process.” Bellegarde said, stressing the need for First Nations communities to be actively engaged.

“We’ve got a lot of legwork, due diligence, proper analysis, all the above.”

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Ottawa pledged $1.25 billion over three years, starting in 2016, for core education, which includes language and cultural instruction. There's a provision for a 4.5 per cent annual increase.

Another $500 million over seven years will go toward infrastructure and $160 million over four years is set aside for implementation.

Bellegarde said lifting the two per cent cap on first nation education spending increases will allow reserves to have competitive teacher salaries and close the education funding gap.

He said he was also pleased with a recognition of the importance of language and culture.

“We got to make sure that it’s founded on that principle of Indian control of Indian education. We got to make sure that it in no way takes away from treaty rights. We got to make sure that that funding block is in place every year,” Bellegarde said.

The new plans also call for attendance requirements, teacher certification and a need to bring on-reserve education in line with provincial standards.

The announcement was applauded by Assembly of First Nations national Chief Shawn Atleo.

Bellegarde said he will report back to his fellow FSIN chiefs at their assembly next Wednesday.

With files from News Talk’s David Kirton and the Canadian Press

lkretzel@rawlco.com

Follow on Twitter: @lkretzel