There is optimism that a long term deal for First Nations police services in Ontario can be reached.
Last week, a federal judge ordered funding to be restored for three Indigenous police services for a year.
Federal Indigenous Services Minister Patty Hajdu says this gives them time to negotiate an agreement.
“It think the 12 month order by the court will give both parties an ability to sit down and talk about what the new contract should look like,” says Hajdu.
“It’s unfortunate that it had to be done through the courts, but profoundly, I think this government is trying to turn the page on court actions.”
Hajdu adds that its important that First Nations are being policed by Indigenous police forces.
“Safe and secure communities is the foundation of healthy communities, and we know this in northwestern Ontario. Many communities and non-Indigenous communities are struggling with policing, either the lack of it or in some cases the wrong kind of policing. Indigenous-based policing is the best approach for Indigenous communities.”
The court order affects the Treaty Three Police, the Anicinabek Police and the UCCM Anishnaabe Police Services.