MKO call for public inquiry into sexist and racist comments

The MKO (Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak) which represents tens of thousands of northern Manitobans, yesterday called for a public inquiry into sexism and racism within the provincial government.

This is their resolution which passed unanimously:

WHEREAS, Racist and sexist remarks made by senior Transportation and Government Services officials during a telephone conversation regarding winter road construction contracts that was conducted while serving in their capacities as employees of government were caught on a taped vocie message and;

WHEREAS, The response of the Minister of Transportation and Government Services have not addressed these matters to the satisfaction of the MKO Chiefs in Assembly.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, That Manitoba immediately

a) initiate a formal independent inquiry into racism in the Manitoba public service, and;
b) conduct an immediate investigation to identify all provincial employees who are directly and indirectly connected with the incident and to confirm the extent of their involvement, and;
c) implement immediate disciplinary action in respect of all involved provincial employees and senior officials commensurate with the serious nature of the misconduct;
d) provide appropriate and adequate compensation to the affected victims and First Nations for any and all damages incurred and experienced, whether directly or indirectly, arising from this matter, and;
e) immediately initiate an appropriate healing process for the victims, including the application of restorative justice mechanisms;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That Manitoba immediately initiate a formal independent inquiry into;

a) Manitoba's business dealings with winter road contractors from the MKO First Nations, particularly in respect of the manner in which Manitoba approves or disapproves work and the related claims for payment of costs submitted to the province by contractors, and;
b) all outstanding unpaid contracts and claims of the Sayisi Dene First Nation, the Bunibonibee Cree Nation and No-Win Construction regarding prior year winter road construction costs.