Thank you, Mr. Chair.
Mr. Chair, if I have the indulgence of the committee, I'd like to just give notice of a motion, unless there's unanimous consent to let me move the motion.
Earlier this year, we had communities in Grouard and Kapawe'no First Nation whose church building was burned down. This is not the first church building in my riding that has burned down in the last few years. I would just like this committee to basically state its opinion, and that it be reported to the House.
The motion would be as follows: That it be reported to the House that the committee condemns the arson and attacks of over 80 churches across Canada; in particular, that it extends its condolences to the communities of Grouard and Kapawe'no First Nation for the loss of the St. Bernard church, one of the oldest churches in Alberta, a piece of history, a building that holds memories for generations of community members; and that this committee reaffirms the freedom of religion and assembly and calls for those responsible for these attacks to be brought to justice.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.
I do have some questions for Mr. Harold Calla. It's good to see you again, sir.
You use the term “fiscal powers” often. One of the fiscal powers of any government is taxation. I'm just wondering if you have any comments around the fact that the Indian Act denies the ability of self-governments to use taxation as a form of fiscal power.