A Mi'kmaq elder on P.E.I. is disappointed that a letter from the French ambassador to Canada failed to apologize for remarks made by the French prime minister during Quebec City's 400th anniversary celebrations.
John Joe Sark, a captain with the Grand Council of the Mi'kmaq, was offended and shocked at comments made by Prime Minister François Fillon this month. Discussing difficulties faced by the French settlers of Quebec City, Fillon described the land as "lawless" and "inhabited by Indians."
Sark wrote for an apology. This week, ambassador François Delattre wrote Sark to say Fillon never meant to offend anyone. The letter explained Fillon's intention "was to underline in a friendly way how wrong our ancestors feelings were when they tread Canadian land upon their arrival."
"They haven't apologized at all," Sark said of the letter.
"I guess that's as close as they'll come to an apology. You know, I find that just a little arrogant."
Sark said he expected more understanding of Mi'kmaq culture from the French prime minister, given they were the first indigenous people encountered by the French.
Sark said he is at least pleased his concerns were addressed.