Chiefs vote to delay decision on FSIN funding

After more than five hours of debate over two days, Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations chiefs decided to delay tough decisions on how to fund the 65-yearold organization.

The dozens of speakers agreed the FSIN should be maintained, despite approximately $2 million in funding cuts over the past two years. There was very little consensus, however, on how to do so.

“There will always be an FSIN, but its structure and shape will evolve,” FSIN Chief Perry Bellegarde said.

One proposed option was to cut some or all of the Federation’s four vice-chief positions. Advocates of the proposal said the tribal chairs and chiefs could take on those duties, but critics said tribal council officials are already too busy.

Other proposed options were to have individual First Nations contribute to the FSIN operations, to use Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority casino profits, or to use the FSIN treaty protection fund.

Those were also met with opposition. Many chiefs said scarce band operations money could not be spared, and argued that as casino money is used for charities and community programs, they are reluctant to dip into that pot.

At the end of an often passionate debate, chiefs voted to delay the decision. First Nation and tribal council officials will gather feedback and report back later this month. In March, chiefs will gather again at a special assembly to make a decision.

Some chiefs and former chiefs showed frustration, saying they wanted a decision made this week.

“You spent a day and a half and you talked and talked and talked, and you made no decision,” former FSIN chief Sol Sanderson said.

“When you meet next month, make some decisions. Our people will support you.”