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JUNE 1, 2000

15 Gwa'sala-Nakwaxda'xw natives employed by Chief James Walkus lost their bid to have their income earned off-reserve declared tax free under the federal Indian Act. The Federal Court of Canada rejected their argument, ruling that the Indian Act can't be used so broadly as to claim that commercial activities off-reserve should be exempt simply because fishing is a necessary part of aboriginal identity.

Similar taxation cases are being heard around the country, including one by Akwesasne Chief Mike Mitchell, who is claiming a constitutional right not to be taxed for transporting goods from the United States to Canada.

Gwa'sala-Nakwaxda'xw Chief Walkus owns one of the largest private fishing fleets in Canada.

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Natives lose legal bid to avoid taxes (Southam News 6/1)