Native leader upset by 'wine and beer' comment

Wednesday, April 30, 2008  

The leader of Manitoba's Southern Chiefs Organization wants an apology from a Conservative party lawmaker who made a comment about "wine and beer" when Native fishing was brought up.

Chief Morris Shannacappo accused lawmaker Leanne Rowat of ignorance and racism for calling out "wine and beer" during a question and answer session last year. Rowat happens to be the aboriginal affairs critic for the Conservative party.

But Conservative leader Hugh McFadyen said no apology is needed. The words "wine and beer" are always called out whenever someone uses the word "sustenance," he said.

Get the Story:
MLA's 'wine and beer' comment sparks accusation of racism (CBC 4/30)