KAMLOOPS, BRITISH COLUMBIA (June 6, 2007) – The Government of Canada announced today the appointment of Mr. David Paul, as Deputy Chief Commissioner, to the First Nations Tax Commission (FNTC). The FNTC is one of the four institutions created as a result of the passage of the First Nations Fiscal and Statistical Management Act (FSMA) which received Royal Assent in March 2005. It is a successor organization to the Indian Taxation Advisory Board (ITAB).
Mr. Paul is a member of the Maliseet Nation at Tobique, New Brunswick and has an extensive background in First Nation property taxation and economic development. He has served as a member of ITAB since its inception.“Mr. Paul has been an integral part of our team since the very first day of ITAB. He brings a wealth of knowledge to the Commission,” said C.T. (Manny) Jules, Chief Commissioner of the FNTC. “He has a solid understanding of the First Nation property tax system and played a key role in developing and building support for the FSMA. I am very pleased we can continue to work together. I know he will make a significant contribution as Deputy Chief Commissioner.”
“On behalf of Canada’s New Government, I wish to congratulate Mr. Paul on his appointment as Deputy Chief Commissioner,” said the Honourable Jim Prentice, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and non- Status Indians. “With a strengthened First Nation tax system, supported by the FNTC, there will be greater certainty and transparency for those paying property taxes on reserve.”
The tenth and final appointment to the Commission will be made by the Native Law Centre, University of Saskatchewan. It will be done pursuant to a regulation made under the First Nations Fiscal and Statistical Management Act. ITAB will continue its services until the Commission begins operations.