Looking for answers on Jay Treaty

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Dear Editor:

All of my life I have gone back and forth to the United States of America with no problems, whatsoever.

I am extremely upset at recent events concerning my grandchildren who were born in the U.S.A. The children are nine, seven, and five years old.

They have been denied an education because they are non-status and born in the United States. Because of a backlog in Ottawa, it could take up to 12 months to find out if they are elibible to be registered with the Beecher Bay Reserve.

Because of immigration rules, they are not able to attend school until they receive their status as a First Nation. If they aren't eligible to be registered, what other options do we have?

Is there a general fund for students who are non-status? I don't believe we should have to register as immigrants if we are registered with a recognized band.

I would like to know if there is an organization that has opted to legislate the Jay Treaty in Canada. I'd appreciate any assistance your readers have to offer me.

Isabelle Charles,

Sooke, B.C.