2-2920
MANIWAKI, QUEBEC (August 9, 2007) - The Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities on behalf of the Honourable Jim Prentice, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, was among the guests invited to participate in the inauguration of a commemorative park in the community by the Chief of Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg, Mr. Stephen McGregor.
Located on the banks of the Gatineau River, the Nagishkodâdiwin Park (which means “Meeting Place” in Algonquin) is erected on land that was used as a burial ground until 1881 for the population of the First Nation and the town of Maniwaki. Following a settlement of a specific claim in March 2007, the First Nation used part of the compensation to build a commemorative park on the land to recognize its sanctity, both for Aboriginals and non-Aboriginals. This opening coincides with the 154th anniversary of the creation of the Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg reserve, in 1853.
Minister Cannon stated that the “inauguration of this commemorative park is a landmark in relations between Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg and the residents of this community. We are reconciling the past with the present and creating common ground for our shared future.”
A memorial pays tribute to the history of the Algonquin, French and Irish people in the area and to the old cemetery. This park will benefit both the Algonquins and the population of Maniwaki and be an attraction for tourism in the area.
“This park is a symbol of the positive results from working in a collaborative fashion with all stakeholders to resolve our land claims and that something beautiful can be attained for everyone,” stated Chief of Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg, Mr. Stephen McGregor.
Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg has 2,486 members, 1,475 of which reside on the territory. The reserve is located 130 kilometres north of Gatineau. It is bounded on the north by the De l'Aigle and Désert rivers and on the east by the Gatineau River.
Fact Sheet - Old Burial Ground Specific Claim Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg
For further information please contact:
Minister's Office
Deirdra McCracken
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Jim Prentice
819-997-0002
Frank Meness
Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg First Nation
(819) 449-5170
Media Relations
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
819-953-1160
