Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Sarah Browne-Shadeek, has rejected misguided statements from the Parliamentary Opposition regarding traditional indigenous houses.
During the Budget 2026 debate on Tuesday at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre, Minister Browne-Shadeek criticised comments made by Opposition Member of Parliament Deon LaCruz.
LaCruz, who represents the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN), said “I strongly believe, Mr. Speaker, that the days for Amerindians to be living in troolie houses should now be over.”
“You can’t born, grow and dead in a trooley house,” LaCruz added.
Minister Browne-Shadeek stated that the statements are offensive.
She emphasised that traditional homes are not symbols of failure or poverty, but rather reflect “indigenous culture, climate awareness, sustainability, and identity passed down through generations.”
Minister Browne-Shadeek also referenced a message she received from Luana Augustus, a young Patamona woman from Kato Region Eight, who expressed her concerns over the remarks.
“Development should give people choices, not erase who we are,” the minister said, noting that real progress for indigenous communities includes improved access to clean water, healthcare, education, roads, and economic opportunities.
Minister Browne-Shadeek further disclosed that when residents in parts of Region Eight were consulted on housing programmes, many chose to maintain traditional designs, highlighting the importance of dignity, consultation, and respect for cultural preferences.
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