OTTAWA - June 6, 2006 - The Honourable Jim Prentice, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, today appointed Alan Pope as the Special Federal Representative to develop a plan for a durable solution for the community of Kashechewan. Mr. Pope is a former Ontario cabinet minister with extensive experience working with First Nations in Northern Ontario.
"The current situation in Kashechewan is unacceptable and the Government is committed to finding a long-term solution for the community." said Minister Prentice. "The answer involves more than geography; we need to focus on providing the best possible future for the families and children of Kashechewan. The Special Federal Representative will work with the community, the provincial government, and all those affected to find a lasting solution, including a substantive plan of action."
Kashechewan, a Cree community of approximately 1,500 on the shore of James Bay in Northern Ontario, has been evacuated three times in the last 15 months due to flooding, sewage back up or water quality issues. Currently, its members are living in temporary accommodation in several towns and cities as they await repairs on their homes and infrastructure.
Mr. Pope will consult with residents of Kashechewan, other First Nation communities in the area, federal and provincial departments, teachers, nurses, and others affected by or involved with the community. He will develop options for a long-term solution, examining alternative sites as well as health and educational issues. Mr. Pope will work through the summer and report in the fall of 2006.
Minister Prentice restated his commitment to find a lasting, long-term solution while attending to the immediate needs of the community.
"While the study continues, we will provide needed investments to protect the health and assets of members of the community," added the Minister. "It is unacceptable to have these people away any longer than is absolutely necessary, and we will do everything we can to get them home as soon as possible."
For further information, contact:
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
Deirdra McCracken
Office of the Honourable Jim Prentice
(819) 997-0002
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
Media Relations Unit
(819) 953-1160
Backgrounder - Alan Pope
