Question Period!
A complex issue will have complex questions. Here are some questions to consider:
1. First Nations people have different rights than non-native Canadians, much because of the Indian Act and other treaties, and many people state that is extremely unfair. Saying this, should the government place the same rights that non-native Canadians have upon the First Nations, or should a new treaty be created with different rights?
2. In a poll (see below), 72% of Canadians believe that the First Nations should not receive more government funds. Do you agree with this? Why do you believe Canadians think this- could their perspective be changed? What could the government do to address this belief?
3. As the issue of First Nations being in poverty situations is still prominent, and has been for a long time, should the government do more to help? How could the government address a new solution that is different than just providing funding?
4. First Nations live in isolated conditions, which leads to why they struggle to get resources and explains why many average Canadians are unaware of the issue. How could the government bring more awareness to this issue and make resources more accessible? Would awareness greatly help this issue?
5. The government provides millions of dollars to First Nations communities. Do you believe that this is putting a drain on our economy? Could this money be better directed towards something else? First Nations reserves are located near natural resources industries (ex. mining), could these communities be able to support themselves all while contributing to the economy?