2020-09-22
I have always appreciated the good relationship Nova Scotia Caucus has with the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs. We are all Treaty people.
To be clear, we firmly recognize that the Mi’kmaw have a constitutionally protected treaty right to fish in pursuit of a moderate livelihood. Yesterday, Minister Jordan and Minster Bennett had an open, respectful and constructive conversation with the Assembly of Mi’kmaw Chiefs where they reaffirmed this.
There is absolutely no place for violence, threats, or the brutal vandalism that’s occurred in South West Nova Scotia. And we share the concerns of the Assembly Chiefs for the safety of their people.
I’ve been told that DFO fishery officers, Canadian Coast Guard vessels and personnel, Royal Canadian Mounted Police, and Public Safety officials are coordinating their efforts in the sea, on the land, and in the air, and are working with officials from the Province of Nova Scotia to respond to any dangerous situations as they may arise.
Following their discussion, Minister Bennett and Minister Jordan stated: “Reconciliation is a Canadian imperative and we all have a role to play in it. What is occurring does not advance this goal, nor does it support the implementation of First Nation Treaty rights, or a productive and orderly fishery. We want to work with First Nations leaders on the path forward of the implementation of their Treaty right, and look forward to upcoming conversations on this matter. This government is firmly committed to advancing reconciliation, respecting Indigenous treaties, and implementing First Nation rights, and we firmly believe that respectful, constructive dialogue is the way to achieve this. At this time we need communication, not confrontation.”
I know that both Minister Bennett and Minister Jordan will continue working with the Mi’kmaw Chiefs on this. I look forward to joining my caucus colleagues in a meeting with the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs this week.
