Province of Manitoba Media Release |
The Government of Manitoba and Sapotaweyak Cree Nation (SCN) have come to an agreement pertaining to development on Crown and treaty land, Aboriginal and Northern Affairs Minister Eric Robinson announced today.
“Today’s announcement clearly shows our government honours the relationship between ourselves and the Sapotaweyak Cree Nation,” said Minister Robinson. “Both parties will work together to discuss topics of mutual concern and ensure all land-use designations are respected.”
The accord will result in meetings between senior officials from the Manitoba government and SCN. Those discussions will focus on issues relating to consultation and accommodation with respect to Bipole III and SCN traditional land, the minister said, adding the meetings will also address the ongoing work of the project and consideration of effects on SCN and its members.
The Bipole III project is located on Crown land and on territory traditionally used by SCN. While the project is being constructed in accordance with the Environment Act and provincial land-use permits, SCN expressed desire to be more involved in the consultation and construction process.
“This relationship accord marks a new milestone in our relationship with the Manitoba government,” said Chief Nelson Genaille, Sapotaweyak Cree Nation. “SCN is committed to work on issues relating to consultation and accommodation in respect of the Bipole III project.”
The two governments will now identify when discussions are to commence, Minister Robinson said.
He added as part of the agreement, the parties may also establish working groups to consider specific topics or issues related to Bipole III and SCN.