The pending arrest of Mohawk members in southern Ontario at Tyendinaga led to an exchange in the legislature yesterday between Opposition member Sol Mamakwa -- who is the MPP for Kiiwetinoong -- and Indigeous Affairs Minister Greg Rickford, the member for Kenora-Rainy River.
During Question Period, Mamakwa asked about the government's role in the arrests.
"Now that the OPP have arrested Mohawk land defenders, potentially creating a flashpoint not just here but across the country, what exactly did this government do to facilitate a resolution in this protest," Mamakwa asked.
Rickford responded by saying members of the government have worked closely with partners -- including Indigenous leaders -- in an effort to peacefully resolve the situation, which is related to the resource development, and he called on the federal government to work with them.
"The scope and power of hereditary chiefs, the duty to consult hereditary chiefs, the ability and the application of Indigenous Law to be considered in the context of resource projects," said the minister. "These were all questions that demanded leadership from the federal government."
For more information:
Queen's Park - Video archive of Question Period Feb. 24 (begins at 10 minute mark)
Ipperwash Inquiry - Final report (Conclusion)
