WENDAKE, QC, Aug. 27, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - The Atikamekw Nation will be hosting, on August 28 and 29 2012, on its territory, an important gathering that will bring together many elected representatives of the First Nations of Quebec and Labrador, which will focus specifically on the territory and its resources.
This gathering, which will be held in conjunction with the Assembly of the First Nations of Quebec and Labrador, aims at taking stock of the status of our relationship with the governments, and follows up in particular, on the blockade initiated by the Atikamekw Chiefs early this summer, in an effort to force the government of Quebec to take somewhat more seriously the matter of negotiations with the Atikamekw Nation.
We must remember that the Quebec government has committed itself, provided that the blockades are suspended, to initiate a discussion process that was to focus on issues relating to land-use activities, wood volumes granted to the forest industry, and a formula for royalties on exploitation.
"It is definite that, gone are the days when the government and the industry could go its own way; the territory was looted before our eyes, without any oversight on our part," has indicated Chief David Boivin, of the First Nation of Wemotaci, the host of this important gathering.
"The Chiefs of the other Nations are fully aware of the challenges faced by the Atikamekw leaders and they want to demonstrate an unconditional support for the approach they have taken on", insisted Ghislain Picard, the Chief of the AFNQL. "This meeting will also be an opportunity to assess the extent of the impacts of the government decisions which affect the territories of all First Nations, without any consideration for their rights and their interests.", concluded Chief Picard.
About the AFNQL
The AFNQL is the regional organization regrouping the 43 Chiefs of the First Nations of Quebec and Labrador. For information: www.apnql-afnql.com.
SOURCE: ASSEMBLY OF FIRST NATIONS OF QUEBEC AND LABRADOR
Mélanie Vincent
418-580-4442
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