Meeting with Minister of Indian Affairs, Chuck Strahl
To:
Fox Lake Cree Nation Members
From: Chief and Council
Date: May 27, 2008
RE: Meeting with Minister of Indian Affairs, Chuck
Strahl
On Friday, May 23, 2008 Chief Neepin met with the
Minister of Indian Affairs, Chuck Strahl regarding our
outstanding issues with Canada. During the meeting, it
was agreed that a special representative of the
Minister would be appointed within the next few days.
The Minister plans to do this when they get back to
Ottawa.
This special representative will meet with FLCN and
determine the feasibility of our case and submit a
report to the Minister for consideration. Should the
report be in our favor, the Minister will then appoint
a Chief Federal Negotiator.
The Chief Federal Negotiator's report will contain
further recommendations to the Minister. The Minister
will then forward a cabinet submission that would
probably contain a proposed compensation package.
The Minister is aware of the urgency to deal with our
issues and come to a mutual understanding beneficial to
both parties. Chief Neepin also stated the importance
of time and to resolve the matter as soon as possible.
Minister Strahl was also reminded that this was an
important timely issue as well from a provincial
minister.
As a result, the Chief is recommending that the members
accept this proposed process and allow the Minister's
special representative to complete his report. This
will also allow FLCN to properly assess and negotiate a
compensation package so that we can better prepare
ourselves for any future development in our traditional
territory.
If you have any questions or comments, please contact
Chief & Council.