2016-Aug-14
Wiky Lands Claim Settlement – an update
With the objective of further developing a dialogue with the Wiikwemkoong First Nation (“Wiky”), Rob Nairn, President, Northern Georgian Bay Association, Bill Riat, NGBA Director, and GBA’s President John McMullen met with Chief Duke Peltier November 24, 2015. All parties agreed that the meeting was a worthwhile occasion for NGBA to table its concerns regarding the proposed Wiikwemkoong Islands Boundary Claim Settlement (aka the Central Lands Claim). It was also agreed that additional meetings are required to further discuss issues and concerns and to explore possible solutions.
GBA met with representatives of the Office of the Attorney General and the Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs March 9, 2016. Our objective was to further familiarize the AG and MAA with the GBA and in particular its interests and concerns with both the Central Claim (above) and the Wiky’s larger claim to Crown islands from Sault St. Marie to Penetang. In the context of Ontario’s Statement of Defence to the Wiky claims, AG representatives emphasized that it is the government’s preference to negotiate settlements, rather than deal with the matter through the courts, as court decisions are uncertain and potentially unpalatable.
MAA has advised that they are still processing the significant input received from the public as part of the Environmental Assessment process. Indications are that negotiations and arriving at a settlement will be a lengthy process.
GBA’s efforts will remain focussed on supporting the NGBA in their dealings with the Wiky FN in regard to the proposed Central Lands Claim to the best of its ability. While it is our wish that whatever settlement is reached is full and final, we will however remain equally attentive to the interests and concerns of our other member associations and to the larger claim, should that larger claim gain traction. Overall, our goal is to assist in the development of a settlement that is fair and equitable to all stakeholders who have an interest in, and value, the Bay, including the First Nations.
