The Chief of Cumberland House Cree Nation (CHCN) said he just wants his people and territory respected.
And that’s why the central Saskatchewan first nation is declaring economic sovereignty over its land, which includes the Kitaskinaw (Saskatchewan River Delta). During a press conference Thursday morning in Prince Albert at Cumberland Crossing Inn, Rene Chaboyer explained current agreements with the federal and provincial levels of government are not being followed or respected.
“The natural resources transfer act took away our commercial rights and ensures we don’t make a living off our natural resources. This is our land,” he said.
Explaining that laws and mechanisms are now being created to guide any future development on the territory, Chaboyer said he is open to signing partnerships with interested companies.
“We are also willing to work with other jurisdictions on permitting and licensing, and to conserve our homelands,” he said.
Chaboyer also explained nothing will proceed without consultation with band members and council.
Chief Rene Chaboyer. (Nigel Maxwell/ paNOW Staff)Representatives from Paper Excellence and Cumberland Wood Products (CWP) were on hand for Thursday’s announcement. The latter is expected to make a formal announcement Monday, regarding its intentions for the forest industry. CWP CEO Aaron Kuchirka said the company recognizes the significance of the declaration.
“All people that live and invest in this area wish to share in its gifts without compromising the eco-system services the delta provides today and into the future,” he said.
Representatives from Cumberland Wood Products observe the press conference. (Nigel Maxwell/ paNOW Staff)
PAGC Vice-Chief Chris Jobb. (Nigel Maxwell/ paNOW Staff)Representatives from both the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations (FSIN) and Prince Albert Grand Council (PAGC) were also on hand to show their support for CHCN’s declaration. PAGC Vice Chief Chris Jobb said the announcement represents a celebration of “our people” and added first nations people on reserve are living in third-world conditions, while others are prospering.
“You see these fancy buildings in Vancouver, Toronto, and other major cities. Those are resources from our mother earth, Turtle Island,” he explained.
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nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com
On Twitter: @nigelmaxwell
