News & Events
Achieving objectives through unity
March 31, 2010
Together Southern First Nations can accomplish their objectives through unity.
In November 2009, Chiefs at an SCO Summit passed a resolution calling on governments to conduct an independent environmental audit of the impacts resulting from Manitoba Hydro's infrastructure and activities on southern First Nations lands and waterways.
On March 9 and 10, Western Manitoba First Nations belonging to Treaties 2 and 4 passed a resolution to oppose construction of the Bi-Pole III transmission line, to further support a complete and comprehensive environmental audit of traditional territory.
Elected Representatives of Treaty 2 and Treaty 4 First Nations are standing strong in support of protecting the Treaty and Inherent rights of their First Nations people.
We must be able to use a variety of strategies - proactive plans - but every approach requires a commitment and collective vision. Often governments tend not come straight at us: instead try divide and conquer, infiltrating us with money and trying to trick us with phony deals.
Opposing interests in government and business know we have a lot less money than they do for legal battles, but that doesn't mean we should stay away from the courts. If governments and business know we won't defend our RIGHTS, they will continue to lay claim to our lands and destroy our environment.
For example: Chief Derek Nepinak, Pine Creek First Nation told the Treaty 2 and 4 gathering that this spring Chiefs would again defy a provincial ban on spring (pickerel) fishing on waters flowing into Dauphin Lake and encourages first nations to practice their Treaty Rights to fish in any season of the year for food.
Recently, SCO filed an application seeking intervener status at Public Utilities Board hearings on March 8 and attended a pre-hearing on March 12. The MPUB Hearings will consider a General Rate application and SCO wants Risk Assessment and Risk Management issues included in any request from Manitoba Hydro prior to increasing electricity rates or constructing any additional hydro projects. SCO will use the hearing to present information and argue that Manitoba Hydro must include impacts and affects on southern First Nations as part of the Risk issues that have not been considered and are an outstanding financial liability to the crown corporation.
SCO continues to demand the Federal Government and Government of Manitoba order and conduct an environmental audit.
Submitted by Grand Chief Morris Swan Shannacappo of the Southern Chiefs' Organization