She was the best’: Wolastoqey chiefs praise Dunn, despite tensions with Higgs – CBC
Feb 14, 2024
No clues to why minister quit, but she often distanced herself from premier’s comments on Indigenous issues
Amid all their disagreements with the Higgs government over the last several years, two Wolastoqey chiefs say one bright light emerged: cabinet minister Arlene Dunn.
Dunn, who resigned as Indigenous affairs minister on Feb. 2, seemed sincere and committed to building a trusting relationship with First Nations leaders, they say.
That approach reassured Chief Shelley Sabattis of Welamukotuk, or Oromocto First Nation, that it was safe to sign a development agreement with the province last November.
“It was her who made me feel comfortable,” Sabattis said.
“I felt like she was being honest with me. It was like a sigh of relief: ‘Maybe somebody’s really listening and I’m going to give this a shot.'”
Chief Ross Perley of Neqotkuk, also called Tobique First Nation, agreed.
