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NLIS 7 May 20, 2004 (Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs) The following statement was issued today by Tom Rideout, minister responsible for Aboriginal Affairs. It was also read in the House of Assembly: I rise in this honourable House today to inform members and the people of the province of the government�s intent to enter into negotiations with the federal government and the Miawpukek First Nation to determine the terms and conditions for a land transfer agreement to expand the Conne River Reserve. Conne River is one of the fastest growing communities in Newfoundland and Labrador, and with this growth comes a need for more land. I am pleased that the process of expanding the Conne River reserve is proceeding, so that the community has the space it needs to grow well into the future. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador made a commitment to reserve expansion in the recent Speech from the Throne, and we intend to move swiftly to conclude the land transfer agreement. This initiative is consistent with Government's objective to work in partnership with aboriginal communities and the Government of Canada so that our aboriginal people can realize their desire to become more self-reliant. I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge Chief Mi�sel Joe, leader of the Miawpukek First Nation, who has taken time out from his busy schedule to be in the House of Assembly today. I would also like to express congratulations and recognition to Chief Joe for receiving an Honourary Doctor of Laws degree at the recent convocation of Sir Wilfred Grenfell College. Proposed Reserve Expansion Map (PDF) 2004 05 20 1:50 p.m. |
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