Grassy Narrows

Grassy Narrows Chief Applauds the Appointment of Justice Iacobucci by Ontario

September 11, 2007

Grassy Narrows Chief Simon Fobister applauds the appointment by Ontario of Mr. Justice Frank Iacobucci as Ontario’s representative to lead discussions on critical issues with the Grassy Narrows First Nation.

“I believe that the appointment of Justice Iacobucci, a high-profile, independent representative, is an important first step towards ending longstanding encroachments on our Traditional Territory without the consent of the people of Grassy Narrows,” said Chief Fobister.

Chief Fobister is pleased that the new process will develop an appropriate partnership between Grassy Narrows and Ontario to put in place a sustainable forest management system and will address immediate issues such as forestry cutting methods, interim protection for traditional activities, and economic opportunities for the people of Grassy Narrows.

But Chief Fobister emphasized that the Grassy Narrows First Nation continues to call for a moratorium on all on-the-ground activities such as forestry harvesting and mining explorations while discussions with Justice Iacobucci proceed.

“This will be the first order of business for discussion with Justice Iacobucci,” said Chief Fobister, and “I continue to call for public support for a moratorium as Ontario’s election campaign begins.”

The people of Grassy Narrows have suffered through mercury pollution of their waterways with devastating health impacts and ongoing devastation of their Traditional Land Use Area by massive forestry harvesting.

Chief Fobister is hopeful that the appointment of Justice Iacobucci signals a new day for Grassy Narrows and the beginning of respect for their treaty rights and the end of damaging and unwanted interference with traditional pursuits.

Contact Chief Simon Fobister, Grassy Narrows First Nation – 807-925- 2201; 705-987-2022