MCK lays out plan to create Kahnaw�:ke law to counter Canada�s S-2 legislation

06/26/2013

The Mohawk Council of Kahnaw�:ke (MCK) announced today its plan of action in regard to Canada�s S-2 legislation.

The MCK earlier announced that it will be approaching the community to give the mandate to use the �Urgent Law-Making Provisions� in the Community Decision Making Process to begin the creation of a Kahnaw�:ke law to counter the Federal Family Homes on Reserves and Matrimonial Interests or Rights Act (S-2). The legislation received Royal Assent on 19, Ohiar�:ha/June and the new regime will come into force one year from the date that will be established by an Order-in-Council to be passed by Canada.

The MCK will distribute information to the community beginning next week. A pamphlet will be prepared illustrating some of the main concerns over S-2 in early July, to be followed by a more detailed document later in the month. Surveys and in-person kiosks are planned for August. The MCK will approach the Kahnaw�:ke Legislative Coordinating Commission with a request for a September date to ask the community for a mandate to proceed.

�It is most important that the community realizes the dangers of this legislation,� said Chief Clinton Phillips. �There are some fairly significant problems that will no doubt arise if we don�t take action. We�ll use every means at our disposal to make sure the message reaches the people.�

�The key will be to make sure people have the information in hand so that when it�s time to move forward we�ll all have the confidence to make the right decision,� said Chief Lloyd Phillips. �We are now entering a period where we will engage the community directly. People should expect pamphlets, television and radio appearances, kiosks, and question/answer sessions.�