OTTAWA, ONTARIO–( EMWNews – April 1, 2008) – The following statement was released by the Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Metis and Non-Status Indians, regarding the decision by the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations (FSIN) to reinstate David Ahenakew as a Senator:

“I am extremely disappointed and disturbed by the decision of FSIN to reinstate David Ahenakew as a Senator within their organization. This decision should be reconsidered immediately.

The past comments by this person have been very hurtful and inappropriate and go against absolutely everything that this country stands for. There is already a trial scheduled to deal with this issue, and it must run its course.

Our government has valued the positive working relationship that we have had with the FSIN; however, based on this decision, we will now be reviewing that relationship. I have given clear instructions to my staff and my department to not participate in any meetings with FSIN in which Mr. Ahenakew is involved.

Again, I want to strongly urge the FSIN to reconsider this unfortunate decision to have Mr. Ahenakew reinstated.”