2-02763

BARBARA MCDOUGALL APPOINTED AS FEDERAL REPRESENTATIVE IN CALEDONIA TALKS

Ottawa, Ontario (May 3, 2006) - The Honourable Jim Prentice, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, today appointed the Honourable Barbara McDougall as the federal representative in discussions aimed at addressing issues raised by the Six Nations community.

“Ms. McDougall is fully qualified to undertake this important task. With her experience in politics, law and community service, she fully appreciates the complexities of the situation and will help bring about an honourable resolution,” said Minister Prentice.

As outlined in the agreement reached on April 21 by all parties, Ms. McDougall has the mandate to work with provincial, municipal and Six Nations representatives to develop a detailed work plan that will provide for effective ways to address and resolve outstanding issues related to land claims and governance. She will be supported by a senior negotiator, Ronald Doering, in her efforts to achieve agreement during these talks. The work plan developed by the representatives will then be presented to all parties for approval.

“This is a positive step that will help Six Nations and the federal and provincial governments to work together and address longstanding issues. I encourage all members of Six Nations as well as Haldimand County residents to recognize the goodwill at the discussion table, as we all work to maintain the long history of close relations between both communities,” Minister Prentice added.

Minister Prentice thanked his Cabinet colleague, the Honourable Diane Finley, for her efforts related to the events in Caledonia. “Diane Finley is an outstanding representative for Haldimand-Norfolk and has been working tirelessly to make sure that the community’s views are heard, especially its hope for a speedy and peaceful resolution of the situation.”

 

For further information, contact:

Media Relations Unit
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
(819) 953-1160

Biographical Notes