FSIN interim chief blasts premier over FN fire services comments

The interim chief of the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations has harsh words for Saskatchewan’s premier following his comments about last month’s fatal house fire on a First Nation.

The fire on the Makwa Sahgaiehacan First Nation claimed the lives of two toddlers, and highlighted the lack of fire services on some Saskatchewan reserves. Premier Brad Wall said it also underscored a need for leadership in First Nations’ communities.

On Tuesday, interim Chief Kimberly Jonathan responded to Wall’s comments, saying they are baseless.

“That any leader would exploit the deaths of innocent children and use a tragedy such as this to attack all First Nations leaders in inherently wrong and truly unfortunate,” Jonathan said in a statement.

“Had Premier Wall shown true leadership by discussing these issues directly with First Nations, he would have found that action is being taken.”

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Wall has since responded to Jonathan’s comments, saying it’s “ridiculous” to suggest he would exploit a loss of life. He stood by his earlier comments, saying he still sees the importance of local leadership on this issue of fire protection on First Nations.

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On Twitter: @princealbertnow