Officials with Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada have confirmed they are looking into allegation of financial improprieties connected to the finances of Fort William First Nation.
Aboriginal Affairs official Genevieve Guibert told Dougall Media on Wedneday the allegations of misuse and mismanagement of public funds were received in September 2011.
Since then a preliminary inquiry has been launched to look at the allegations. However Guibert says they are unable to provide any information on the nature of the alleged abuses. They cannot disclose who made them, or who, if anyone, they are directed at.
There is no also time frame for completion of the preliminary inquiry.
What further action will be taken will be determined at the completion of the process. But if a broader investigation or audit is deemed necessary there will be no public disclosure until that probe has run its course.
While the inquiry has been the subject of much discussion among band members, Fort William First Nation officials have had little to say about the situation.
Director of operations Ian Bannon said he has not been contacted by Aboriginal Affairs and could not offer comment.
