If I had the power to do so, the government of Quebec would not hesitate
to cut grants to the Indians in order to force a permanent solution to the
problems of smmugling and civil disobedience, which have now become entrenched.
Minster of Public Scurity Serge Manard is determined. He is not afraid
of a tough confrontation with the Mohawks to settle aboriginal question, he
told the Journal de Montreal this week during an exclisive interview in an
actchamber at the National Assembly in Quebec City.
The Minister seems calm and decided. He is not calling for a confron-
tation, but he is very serious. He wants to settle a situtation which
he considers unacceptable.
"Definitely, if we cut grants to pay aboriginal chiefs for their travel
and administative costs, that would force them to negotiate," said Manard.
"They would say it was BLACKMAIL !" They could, but they wouldn't be
paid."
"They could block the Mercier Bridge or blow up Hydro-Quebec power
transmission towers in retaliation. They could hold the public hostage! There
would be strong public pressure"
"To give them money? My impression is the public pressure would, on the
contrary be not to give them money."
"So you would settle it with tanks?"
"I'll cross that bridge when - it has blown up!" Manard joked,
undaunted by the prospect of escalating pressure tactics.
In Manard's view, the Mohawks should realize that some of the money from
cigarette taxes goes to pay the grants to Kahnawake total $27 million per year.
Federal subsidies to Kanesatake are 6 million per year.
He also believes that great majority of Mohawks do not approve of
smuggling but are forced into silence by fear of retaliation from the black
market king pins.
Politcal will is on the part of the Band Council could quickly settle
the problem. But in the meantime, perssure will have to be stepped up,
especially as Grand Chief Jerry Peltier is snubbing all ministers, refusing to
meet anyone except Premier Jacques Parizeau.
"It seems a minster is not enough for him," said Manard, totally
unimpressed by this attitude.
However the minister does not intend to hold aboriginal children, or the
sick hostage by cutting off grants to obtain an honorable settlement for all.
"We will never hold sick people hostage; it is the government which sees
to their transportation to specialized hospitals. Neither will we cut grants
for education at the expense of children. We will make cuts where it counts,
to make our meaning clear."