Wabauskang Opposes Desecration of Traditional Territory For Immediate Release September 3, 2013 Wabauskang First Nation, Ontario Wabauskang First Nation stands opposed to Ontario’s recent decision to allow mechanized stripping of its traditional territory in the Laird Lake area. On August 23, 2013, the Ontario Ministry of Mines and Northern Development approved a three year permit to an individual to conduct mechanised stripping in the Laird Lake area, located 20 miles from Red Lake in the Kenora District. Mechanized surface stripping uses heavy equipment to remove vegetation and soil as part of mining exploration. The mechanised stripping will occur in an area within Wabauskang’s traditional territory and where a trap line has been held by the Cameron family for generations. The Laird Lake area is also used by the community year round and in particular by the youth. “Wabauskang First Nation has Aboriginal and Treaty rights that must be respected by the Crown and industry” said Wabauskang Chief Leslie Cameron in response to the issuance of the permit. “We will take action when any activity involves the desecration of our lands and has serious long term impacts on our youth. We have had enough of our rights being violated by Crown and industry.” Since first learning of the permit application in May, Wabauskang has voiced its opposition to the application in letters to Provincial government officials including the Minister of Northern Development & Mines and the Minister of Natural Resources and well as in meetings with high ranking MNDM officials. Wabauskang is garnering support from First Nation political organizations such as Grand Council Treaty #3 & the Chiefs of Ontario and the support of neighboring communities. Wabauskang First Nation will continue to actively oppose all activities in the Laird Lake area that undermine Wabauskang’s Treaty rights and destroy the land. For more information, please contact: Chief Leslie Cameron Cell: 807-464-0987 -30-
Posted on: Thu, 05 Sep 2013 00:19:51 +0000
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