Results of a pre-election survey by the Wolastoqey Nation of New Brunswick show stark differences in how three of the political parties would tackle issues like title and tax-sharing if they form the next government. This week, responses from the incumbent Progressive Conservatives, as well as the Liberal Party and Green Party were all published in full by the organization, which represents six Indigenous nations in the province. The People's Alliance and NDP did not respond to the survey, the group said in a statement.
The organization distributed questions on Aug. 18 about Aboriginal title, treaty rights, systemic racism, policing and consultation on resource development and land use. "It's a report card really, for the current government, is the way I look at it," said Chief Allan Polchies of Sitansisk First Nation, also known as St.
Mary's, in an interview. The Wolastoqey chiefs released the results of their pre-election survey to political parties this week. (Alexandre Silberman/CBC) Progressive Conservative responses to the survey largely match policy decisions already taken by Blaine Higgs's majority government.
If re-elected, the Tories would continue to "respectfully disagree" that First Nation lands were never ceded, as the organization has said, citing the Peace and Friendship Treaties. That dispute is central to several ongoing title claims launched by Wolastoqey and Mi'kmaw communities. WATCH | Government's 'paternalistic' approach has to go, says Chief Allan Pol.