McKnight wants major review of DIA management

Page 2

OTTAWA - The Honourable Bill McKnight, Minister of Northern Affairs and Northern Development, has confirmed that he has requested the Honuorable Robert de Cotret, President of the Treasury Board, to undertake a major review of the management of the lands, revenues and trust functions of the Department of Indian Affairs and Northern Development (INAC). Mr. McKnight's request was contained in a letter to his Cabinet colleague.

In addition to the Treasury Board review, the department will undertake the remedial measures outlined in the Auditor General's 1986 Annual Report.

"Over the years, many Indian leaders have expressed growing concerns over sections of the Indian Act which require the Crown to manage Indian lands and moneys," Mr. McKnight said. "Through the Auditor General's investigations and internal review of several provisions of the Indian Act, it has become increasingly obvious that a fundamental review of the whole area is required."

"I concur with several of the Auditor General's findings," Mr. McKnight stated. The importance of the prudent management of the lands, revenues and trusts area of my department cannot be overstated. As such, I propose to take action immediately."

The department has already initiated a number of remedial steps, ranging from organization changes and reviews to staff training, procedural reviews related to trust accounts for minors, and automation of the land registry system. Other measures are dependent upon complex legal definitions and decisions.

"A number of the difficulties that have been encouraged to date are legislative in nature. Several provisions in the Indian Act are out of touch with government policies. Still another part of any ultimate solution can be traced to human resource requirements," the minister stated. "I propose to review this situation."