‘’Silenced No More’’ 269 are trying to silence the Peguis Auditor and Obstruct Democrat Rights of Community Members
Posted on March 21, 2023
Today on March 20, 2023 at the Peguis Community hall, “Silence No More’’ 269 silenced the people of Peguis and the official audit presentation which was to be given by Peguis auditor Baker Tilley.
Unfortunately, a small number of protesters affiliated to the group 269 “Silent No More” obstructed the presentation and requested shutting it down. With the endorsement by a quorum of Peguis council, this action was undertaken and is a total breach of the democratic right of all Peguis members to have access to factual, transparent and accountability on information concerning the First Nations finances. This quorum of council led by Martin Favel, Glennis Sutherland, Wade Sutherland and 269 Supporter Kelvin Wilson obstructed the democratic right of our Peguis community members to see the presentation of the 2021/22 audit results. The other council members present Chief Glenn Hudson and Mary Tyler Bear had requested the audit presentation proceed.
The auditor of the Nation was initially given the mandate by Chief and Council to present his findings today and opinions regarding the state of Peguis’ finances and debt load to all Peguis members in attendance. This meeting was also the opportunity to ask questions of the auditor. Peguis leadership has presented the audit annually over the last 16 years to the community and people of Peguis. The interaction with the auditor would have revealed the band debt reduced substantially from $118 Million to $35 million this past fiscal year of 2021/22. Now this debt reduction may be jeopardized.
At a time where there is much concern and misinformation about Peguis’ financial situation coming from rumours on social media and the 269 “Silence No More” group, this afternoon’s obstruction of democracy was not only selfish, but it was irresponsible to the people and community.
We will keep you posted about the rescheduling of the audit presentation and will ask for your continued support.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW: Peguis-Consolidated-Financial-Statements-2022
