Aboriginal delegates from Dakota Tipi First Nation were invited to the workplace development funding roundtable in Portage la Prairie last Thursday. Councillor Karl Stone shares how he feels about attending the discussions.

Karl Stone"In regards to the market study, we're happy to be involved in the study, and the process. We're happy that we're invited and hopefully we'll be included in more of the allocation of the money."

Stone was asked if more First Nations people are being involved in these kinds of talks.

"I think so. I think our people are starting to get more involved in the process of funding for First Nations. The issues on First Nations in regards to the labour market is quite major. We need the dollars in our communities to help the people in training, education, promoting wellness, and getting adequate help."

He gives an example of what they're struggling with.

"I know right now in Portage it is hard with our business to find employees that are skilled and trained to work as cashiers and whatnot. We train them, but we don't have the resources to pay them or anything like that. We do the best we can to accommodate our people."