Current Code
- Reference to Oneida as a reserve
- Acronyms
- INAC language
- No criminal check required by candidates
- Tight turnaround time for ballot collection
- Chief and Council procedures that are requirements of ISC
Having a Custom Election Code in place moves Oneida one step closer to self-governance. That means that decision making remains in the community – not with the Canadian government. It will provide for the greatest flexibility and autonomy, unlike the Indian Act. Ultimately, it removes Indigenous Services Canada from any involvement with community election progress except for recording election results.
There was extensive work in a draft of the code in 2003 and did not move forward from there. This was identified as a priority by 2020-2022 Council and a committee was formed to begin review and updates.
We expect to provide voting information by early 2024, with expected vote to take place shortly after.
What are some of the changes proposed?
There are some minor changes that include:
Proposed Custom Code
- Reference to Oneida as a settlement
- Removal of all acronyms for ease of review
- Update to ISC
- Criminal check required by candidates
- Expand turnaround time for ballot collection to accommodate all registered members
- Removal of articles specific to Chief and Council procedures
There are the major proposed changes:
Current Code
- 2 year term for Chief and Council
- 12 council members in total
- All council are paid honorarium for meetings attended
- Anyone can run for Chief or Councillor positions
- Indian Band Council Procedure Regulations
- Appeal mechanism managed by Canada
Proposed Custom Code
- 3 to 4 year term for Chief and Council
- 6 council members in total
- 5 full time working council positions
- Must be a registered Oneida member to run for Chief or Councillor positions
- Oneida Council Procedure Regulations
- Elections Appeal Tribunal established in Oneida
How is feedback being collected?
Community members can provide their input in the following ways:
- Email CECFeedback@Oneida.on.ca with comments or questions. Please be specific to the content where possible.
- In person at upcoming community meetings in person (to be scheduled)
- Via Zoom (to be scheduled)