Kahnawake Chief comments on Mario Dumont, Native tobacco crackdown

05/09/2008

Kahnawà:ke Grand Chief Michael Ahríhrhon Delisle, Jr. is questioning the judgment of ADQ leader Mario Dumont in regard to comments made at a press conference this morning in the neighboring community of St. Philippe.

Mr. Dumont is in favor of staging major police actions in the Native territories to stop the Native tobacco trade.

“It’s obvious Mr. Dumont is out of touch with reality in terms of Kahnawà:ke and the tobacco trade,” said Chief Delisle. “Mr. Dumont’s suggestion of staging a major police raid is not only irresponsible – it’s extremely dangerous. This is especially disturbing coming from a man who fancies himself as a future premier of Quebec.”

The Grand Chief has been steadfast in his belief that the federal and provincial governments must meet with Kahnawà:ke to address the issues and come up with solutions.

Additionally, the Grand Chief wishes to correct misinformation that has been distributed through some media outlets. “The Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke has not made any threats to close down or block the Mercier Bridge as a response to plans announced earlier this week to crack down on the Native tobacco trade,” he said. “We’re fairly certain that the governments will take the sensible approach on this matter. It’s time to talk – not engage in threats.”

A video quote can be found on the main page of Kahnawake.com.