You are full-fledged members of my community and I am very proud of that fact. When I have something to negotiate, I will rely on you since you have strong negotiating skills. You have always managed to put the pieces of the puzzle together, one by one. Many first nations in Canada would be happy to be where you are today. However, I can attest to the fact that there are certainly many problems that still need to be addressed.
Earlier, you talked about community governance, about having the authority eventually to establish rules between school boards, communities and band councils. I think you have the ability to see to it that such authority is granted to you.
You are very skilled negotiators. However, your closest representatives generally are unaware of where you stand or of the exact nature of your demands. We usually find out what these are when you table your report to the committee. That is what I deplore the most. Regarding the vision that you have just shared with us, you could let us know when and where you want this vision to come to fruition and with whom you have shared it. We could then accompany you in this endeavour.
For example, the Chisasibi Cree Nation has had recurring problems with turtle grass flats. This matter has been brought to the committee's attention. I'm not sure where things stand but this issue, which affects geese, is important to the Cree Nation. It's part of its culture.
The residents of Whapmagoostui need a bridge for community expansion.
You spoke of another problem that concerns me as well as my colleague. Some of his constituents are planning to move to our community if the problem is not resolved. As you know, we favour nation to nation negotiation. Negotiations are set to take place between the Cree and Algonquian first nations. I will let my colleague Marc talk more about this later.
I would first like to know your opinion of the bill calling for first nation transparency. We hear a lot about new housing, but in several coastal villages, existing housing was built on soil that while not unstable per se, is currently reacting to the thaw. Houses are greatly affected by mould. Has this problem been resolved? Lastly, can you tell me how many reports you are required to present at this time? Do you not think that you could present all of your demands in a single annual report?
Please respond quickly, so as to give my colleague time to put his question. He is also very much interested in this issue.