News & Events
First Nations stand firm on major Hydro transmission line
March 11, 2010
Treaty 2 and Treaty 4 will not allow Bipole III to cross Traditional Territory in Western Manitoba
At a gathering March 9 and 10, 2010 in Dauphin representatives of Manitoba First Nations belonging to Treaty 2 and Treaty 4 are determined not to allow Bipole III to cross their land until the Federal Government and Province of Manitoba complete an environmental audit of past impacts and effects of Manitoba Hydro on southern first nations.
People at the gathering, especially Elders, spoke of nasty and deceptive treatment by Manitoba Hydro on a range of environmental and economic issues.
"Manitoba Hydro must be held to account for its past practices before it talks about going through our traditional territories for anything new," SCO Grand Chief Morris J. Swan Shannacappo said following the gathering.
"All three of the potential western routes for Bi-Pole III pass through Treaty 2 and Treaty 4 lands. There is strong feeling among Chiefs, Elders and other delegates at the gathering that their position should be provided similar financial resources to begin discussions amongst themselves such as what was provided under the Wabnong Nakaygum Okimawin (WNO) for the eastside first nations. This will assist with identifying concerns and discussions on natural resource projects that have or will affect or impact our traditional territories," stated Chief Norman Bone, Keeseekoowenin First Nation
The resolution is specific to Bipole III project that further reflects the position supported by resolution at a Summit of the Southern Chiefs Organization calling for anindependent audit of the full environmental, economic and cultural impacts of Manitoba Hydro's activities.
Manitoba Hydro's activities have had a significant impact on southern Manitoba. The relationship between the dams and economic consequences is not as obvious as in northern Manitoba, but impacts of artificial water levels has serious consequences in terms of flooding of first nation lands and harvesting of traditional foods such as fishing for our people throughout the 36 First Nations.
Chief Derek Nepinak, Pine Creek First Nation "We are going to be standing up for our Treaty(s) and standing together as Treaty people. This gathering wasn't the end of something. It is the beginning."
Within Manitoba there are 16 First Nations that belong to either Treaty 2 or Treaty 4 territory. They are within the west side of the province or the Interlake.