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OTTAWA, ONTARIO (January 15, 2009) - The Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs of Canada and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, today announced the appointment of Mr. Michel de Grandpré as Chief Federal Representative for the Seigneury of Lake of Two Mountains specific claim.
Mr. Michel de Grandpré's main tasks will be to conduct exploratory discussions on the current grievances of the Mohawks of Kanesatake regarding the Seigneury of Lake of Two Mountains and to prioritize the conclusion of an agreement to settle this claim.
"Mr. De Grandpré contribution to these preliminary discussions regarding the negotiation of the Mohawks of Kanesatake's specific claim is appreciated. I am pleased that he is joining the team in order to assist us in this process," said Minister Strahl.
Over the past 40 years, Mr. de Grandpré has worked in the business world. He has served as a company executive and as a strategic and financial advisor in a wide range of fields, including financing of major projects, information technology, construction and property transactions. Mr. de Grandpré is a strategic consultant to various firms representing a broad variety of industries.
On April 14, 2008, the Government of Canada accepted the specific claim regarding the Seigneury of Lake of Two Mountains, under the Specific Claims Policy. The offer to negotiate is before the Mohawk Council of Kanesatake for consideration. After formal acceptance of the offer, negotiations can begin.
The claim, filed in 2005, relates to the lands of the former Commons in the Kanesatake/Oka area. The Commons had been used by the Mohawks of Kanesatake, mainly for pasture and cutting wood.
Biographical Note - Mr. Michel de Grandpré
For more information, please contact:
Minister's Office
Nina Chiarelli
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Chuck Strahl
(819) 997-0002
Media Relations
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
819-953-1160
