First Nations Summit Calls For Independent Investigation Into RCMP Shooting
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 28, 2009
Coast Salish Territory/Vancouver – Leaders of the First Nations Summit are calling for an independent investigation into the circumstances that led to the fatal shooting of Rodney Shane Jackson in the Gitxsan community of Kisega’as on Saturday.Jackson, 35, was a member of the Gitxsan Nation, had been evading arrest on five outstanding charges.
“First Nations’ confidence in the RCMP’s ability to provide impartial police services in the region have obviously been damaged in the past few months”, said Grand Chief Edward John of the First Nations Summit political executive. “The only way confidence will be restored is to have a completely impartial investigation into the shooting, without participation by any policing body.”
“We are also extremely disappointed the RCMP chose not to invoke the BC First Nations – RCMP Public Safety Cooperation Protocol which calls for full and open communications with First Nations leaders, especially in crisis situations that could lead to the personal harm of a community member. We will be seeking a meeting with senior RCMP officials to discuss this breakdown in the protocol”, added Grand Chief Doug Kelly also a member of the First Nations Summit political executive.
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The First Nations Summit speaks on behalf of First Nations involved in treaty negotiations in British Columbia. Further background information on the Summit may be found at www.fns.bc.ca
For Further Information:
Colin Braker, Communications Direct
First Nations Summit
604-926-9903
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