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OTTAWA, ONTARIO (May 12, 2000) - Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development Robert Nault today announced the appointment of Mavis A. Erickson as a Special Representative with a wide-ranging mandate to make recommendations on the protection of rights for First Nations women both under the Indian Act and outside of it.

"Mavis A. Erickson's role will be to help us build a vision of our relationship that reflects the unique role and place of First Nations women in society today," said Minister Nault. "The current legislative framework of the Indian Act does not reflect the reality of the role that First Nation women play in their communities."

The Special Representative will focus on three main areas of concern: the administration of the Indian Act and its provisions which negatively impact on First Nations women; potential gaps in the Indian Act, such as the division of matrimonial real property on reserve upon marital breakdown; and areas outside the Indian Act that would challenge the new relationships we are building.

"We have a chance to take a leadership role and make positive change without sitting back until the courts decide for us," said Minister Nault. "To me, it's clear that we have to do something to address the obstacles and limitations of this legislation. It's equally clear to me that we need to work together with First Nations to move ahead with any work that has an impact on the Indian Act."

Mavis A. Erickson will hold discussions across the country with interested women representatives from national, provincial and regional, organizations, as well as other interested stakeholders. The process will take place over a six-month period beginning in June 2000. Details on the consultations should be available in early June. In the meantime, people are welcome to make written submissions to the Special Representative. The Special Representative will submit a report on those findings by November 2000.

"In order for the process to succeed, it must have integrity." continued Minister Nault. "The commitment must be real. And the results must reflect the constructive input of all parties. I look forward to widespread participation and support for this initiative."

For further information, please contact:

Backgrounder:
Special Representative on Protection of First Nation Women's Rights

Biographical note:
Mavis A. Erickson, British Columbia

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