MCK opposes Quebec’s Bill 85 Sends open letter to Premier

08/11/2017

The Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke would like to inform the public that Grand Chief Joseph Tokwiro Norton has sent an open letter to Premier Phillip Couillard over concerns with the proposed Bill 85 to fast-track economic development along Autoroute 30. Lands identified in the Bill cut through Seigneury of Sault St. Louis lands and over lands to which Kahnawà:ke holds title.

The letter states, “I am writing to draw your attention to the extreme disappointment we have with the attitude and approach of the government of Quebec with regards to Bill 85 and Kahnawà:ke’s rights and interests.”

“If the government of Quebec adopts Bill 85 in its present form, it will have immediate and irreparable consequences on the rights, interests and title of the Mohawks of Kahnawà:ke. The lack of consultation and existing approach of the government of Quebec with respect to Bill 85 is callous and an absolute disregard for the constitutionally protected rights of the Mohawk of Kahnawà:ke.”

The letter continues, “Our People are tired of the inaction, broken promises, and disregard of our interests that are undertaken by your government. We have remained stoic in the face of such an injustice but frustrations are growing. We can no longer remain stoic; we must take a more vocal and stronger presence to ensure we are not ignored.”

The Chiefs of the MCK will be travelling to Quebec City on Tuesday August 15th, 2017 to make a public statement on this position and are welcoming local media and Community members to ride along free of charge – subject to limited space. The bus will leave the MCK at 9am. Please confirm your attendance with Brandi Meloche by Monday, August 14th at noon at 450-632-7500 or brandi.meloche@mck.ca. The bus will return to Kahnawà:ke immediately after the proceedings.

The letter can be viewed in its entirety at www.kahnawake.com .