May 30, 2007

Tsimshian: Inadequate Consultation and Compensation


The mission of the Taiwan Root Medical Peace Corps to Somaliland is an example of humanitarian co-operation between two countries seeking recognition in the international community.

The mission of the Taiwan Root Medical Peace Corps to Somaliland is an example of humanitarian co-operation between two countries seeking recognition in the international community.

Below is an article written by Arthur Williams and published by the Northern View:

Anger is still brewing amongst members of the Coast Tsimshian First Nation over what they say was inadequate consultation and compensation during the development of the Fairview Container Terminal.

In April the First Nation, comprised of the Metlakatla and Lax Kw’alaams Bands, issued a statement threatening to, “not allow phase one [of the container terminal] to commence operations unless our concerns have been addressed.”

“Basically things haven’t changed,” Metlakatla Chief Harold Leighton said.

“There has been no progress with the federal government or Port of Prince Rupert. We met with Minister [for the Pacific Gateway David] Emerson in late February and he said, ‘Give me 10 days to two weeks to respond to you.’ But we haven’t heard anything. Nobody is talking to us – the frustration is building.”

Leighton said First Nation members are preparing to take their own action to make their concerns heard.

“The First Nations have put a plan together and are moving forward to implement that plan. It will include a rally with an invitation to all First Nations in B.C. – after that, a series of actions,” Leighton said.

“Provincially we’ve received a fair amount of support. The issues we’re dealing with here are the same across B.C. and Canada.”

Leighton hinted that blockades may be in the works for Prince Rupert unless their issues are resolved.

“Hopefully we wont have to go that far to get recognition. But I expect it will be considered,” Leighton said.

“The only thing I call tell you is all transportation corridors go through Coast Tsimshian reservations.”

Prince Rupert Port Authority president and CEO Don Krusel said port officials are working with First Nations to resolve their issues.

“There are activities behind the scenes taking place to accelerate the discussions with the local First Nations regarding the development,” he said.

“As that process unfolds, we remain confident that these issues will be resolved.”

As long as that discussion is happening, Krusel said, he doesn’t expect any Caledonia-style blockades of the port.

CN Rail mountain region general manager Tom Bourgonje said he currently isn’t concerned about the possibility of rail line blockades in the Prince Rupert area.