The First Nations Fisheries Council constantly asking the Canadian government to come up with strict measures to tackle the current crisis in B.C First Nations communities through a $1.3 billion dollar fisheries-related investment in as a part of the federal economic stimulus package. Due to bad economy of the commercial fishing industry and forestry sectors many First Nations people have left without income and unable to qualify for Employment Insurance benefits.
On the other hand the crisis in the health of fish stocks the majority of First Nations in British Columbia have failed the people to gather adequate food fish resources to sustain their families and communities over the winter months. Dr. Michelle Corfield, First Nations Fisheries Council Member, informed that fishing is an integral part of our culture in coastal and interior communities.
Commenting on this the Canadian government said that it needs to take action through supporting economic initiatives that will directly benefit First Nations communities and the fisheries resource. Grand Chief Doug Kelly challenged Prime Minister Harper’s government to work with the opposition leaders in order to develop a budget that meets the needs of all Canadians.
