Quebec Agrees to Return of Lands, Names Negotiator for Seigneury

06/02/2008

The Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke announced that it has received a letter from Quebec signifying that it has formally agreed to repatriate 700 acres of land to Kahnawá:ke as the first step in becoming involved in negotiations on the Seigneury of Sault St. Louis grievance.

Additionally, it was announced on Friday evening (30, Onerahtohkó:wa/May) that Quebec has appointed John Parisella as the provincial negotiator for the Seigneury.

“This has huge significance,” said Grand Chief Michael Ahríhrhon Delisle, Jr. “While Canada and Kahnawà:ke have been in formal Seigneury negotiations since 2005 Quebec has, until now, been reluctant to participate. This has now changed.”

“We’ve been discussing the return of lands and enlarging Kahnawà:ke’s footprint for many years,” he added.

“We’re finally sitting down with both levels of government to get down to the business of settling our grievances and addressing the issue of return of land.”

Chief Delisle is expected to speak with Mr. Parisella in the next few days to establish a relationship.

Chief Delisle was a guest on the K103 Morning Talk Show with News Anchor Dino Sisto. To listen to the interview, visit the main page of Kahnawake.com.