VICTORIA – Allowing Randy Hawes’ outrageous comments about First Nations to stand shows the B.C. Liberals have completely abandoned any commitment to the new relationship, say the New Democrats.

Scott FraserNew Democrat aboriginal relations critic Scott Fraser agrees with the the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs that it was outrageous for Hawes to suggest that First Nations reject mining on their traditional territory “for a more traditional lifestyle- those ways are linked to lower birth weights, higher birth rate deaths and lower life spans.”

“Those comments are beyond the pale,” said Fraser. “It’s absolutely outrageous that the B.C. Liberals think it’s okay for a minister to attack the integrity of First Nations and minimize their legitimate concerns about resource extraction on their traditional territory.”

Fraser said that Hawes was one of a few ministers to keep his job in the most recent cabinet shuffle.

“That speaks volumes, not only about the B.C. Liberals’ commitment to resolving disputes on First Nations’ traditional territories, but about Premier Gordon Campbell’s leadership,” said Fraser.

“British Columbians are left to assume that the premier either agrees with these comments or he’s so wrapped up in his own internal chaos that he can’t deal with them effectively. Neither choice bodes well for building better relationships between First Nations and governments.”

New Democrat Leader Carole James has called for the formation of a mining commission to work with mining companies, First Nations and local communities to find places where mining makes sense.

“The B.C. Liberals should be supporting our proposal for a mining commission, which would build consensus through collaboration, rather than making outrageous comments that only serve to divide,” said Fraser.

The Carole James New Democrats are working on solutions to ensure that natural resources are used effectively to create jobs in British Columbia, while still respecting First Nations, environmental and local needs.