CORNWALL -- A projected 19 per cent cutback for First Nations policing in this year's federal budget has drawn concern and strong opposition from National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations, Shawn A-inchut Atleo.
"We do not believe this is in the best interests of our citizens and this is quite troubling for our communities," he stated, in a press release.
District Chief of Cornwall Island, Brian David, also commented on he news, saying, in an email, that this projection "makes no sense, in light of a federal government, whose policy is one of 'law and order.'"
"For Akwesasne in particular, we were hopeful that we could speak about an increase, not a decrease," he wrote. "The projected cutbacks on policing clearly demonstrates a confused chain of thought-- the govern-m e nt is the first to label our community as being 'lawless' in the media, and then cuts our policing budget."
David said this projection is unacceptable, and that having less police will have a negative impact on the community, and those surrounding it.
Atleo also said the proposed cuts are of "tremendous concern to our people and to anyone who cares about the safety and security of our citizens in our communities."
He said First Nations communities are already struggling under a minimum budget for public security. The release also states that there has been no communication between First Nations leadership and the federal Community Safety and Partnerships Branch regarding funding cutbacks, and that both the minister and the branch have a responsibility to advise the First Nations.
"This decision is being taken without any consultation with First Nations, and the Government of Canada clearly does not understand the tremendous impact it will have on the essential safety and security of our people," he stated.
Atleo stated he is seeking an immediate meeting with the federal Minister of Public Safety and Public Safety Minister Vic Toews to resolve the issue.
The First Nations Chiefs of Police Association have also expressed concerns, states the release.
David Charbonneau, spokesperson for Public Safety Canada, said in an email that the Government of Canada continues to support the First Nations Policing Program, which has made a significant contribution to improving public safety in First Nation and Inuit communities for close to 20 years.
"A proposal for consideration has been developed on the renewal of the FNPP," he wrote.
"Until a final decision is made with respect to the renewal of this program, the government will continue to work with provincial and territorial partners and Aboriginal stakeholders to advance the renewal process."
Charbonneau wrote as part of the comprehensive review, options for the future of the program are being considered.
"Preparation of the federal budget is a standard yearly exercise designed to safeguard the fiscal well-being of the country," he wrote. "No one should prejudge the outcome of budgetary decisions."