N.W.T. Gwichin council candidates split on devolution fight

Candidates at the Gwich'in Tribal Council are split on the idea of fighting the N.W.T. governments devolution Agreement in Principle (AIP) in court.

At least one candidate running for president says the council could be seen as holding up the process for other aboriginal groups and face overwhelming legal fees.

Others say a lawsuit is essential because the Gwichin claim they were not properly consulted.

"To take this initiative on our own is, to me, not very well thought-out," said Robert Alexie Jr., one of three candidates running to be president of the council.

"I dont think too much of the AIP, to tell you the truth, but I also dont think its very prudent for the Tribal Council to take this initiative on its own. Its something that should have been discussed with other aboriginal organizations and similar organizations across the territories."

Last February, the Gwichin Tribal Council passed a motion in its assembly to launch a Supreme Court case over devolution.

Alexie says he believes the lawsuit isnt popular among Gwichin members in communities.

Those who support the lawsuit say the threat of it is an important tool to give the council bargaining power.

Norman Snowshoe, who is running for vice-president of the council, supports that idea.

"If the Gwich'in were directed to take this to court, then I support that if it's under direction from the Gwich'in people," said Snowshoe.

Candidate also concerned about councils spending

Alexie also objects to the councils spending money to fight the AIP. He said the council has spent $230,000 on a report presented to the Gwichin Assembly and Dene Nation last year.

"Were paying the brunt of this lawsuit and right now, we dont know how much its going cost."

Alexie said the council should reconsider a lawsuit against devolution, especially now that the Sahtu have signed on to negotiate.

The council elections will be held on June 22.

Meanwhile, the first round of negotiations on devolution with the Sahtu begin Thursday in Yellowknife.

CBC is trying to reach all candidates running for positions at the Gwichin Tribal Council elections.