I have been watching this program every week. Although it is somewhat biased, it is still interesting.
Sometimes, they stretch things beyond belief.
They are talking about DeBeers agreement with the Attawapiskat band.
They negotiated with DeBeers, with input from their lawyers. They signed an agreement.
Now they are not happy with the "peanuts" (their word) that they are getting.
DeBeers has paid them many millions of dollars.
DeBeers agreed to hire the band natives, providing they get grade 12 or equivalency. It is part of the agreement and they are prepared to honor it.
But, their schools are in prefab buildings - cold in the winter. So, they are waiting for the Canadian government to build a new school.
Why not use some of DeBeers millions to insulate the school buildings? No, that money goes for other things. Like what? Schools, roads, housing, water and sewers. No, they expect those from the government. So where is the money being spent. Campouts on an island in Ottawa.
This program has also highlighted the successes. The Osoyoos band, previously covered on these boards. It also highlighted the James Bay Agreement. This gave the Cree, and others, a huge chunk of land in Northern Quebec. As one native said, "once again, the Cree are a great nation". They had to invest $84 million in the project. They didn't know where they would get that amount of money - but they managed. Now, that investment has provided tremendous benefits.
