THUNDER BAY -- Court documents show Nishnawbe Aski Nation is seeking $150,000 in damages from a group of Hornepayne First Nation protestors who have occupied their offices since early April.
The suit, filed at the Ontario Court of Justice, names 10 defendants, including Ron Kocsis, Isobel Clathworthy, Judy Mayhew, Margie Goulet, Rheal Twance, Robert Taylor, Beatrice Summer, Chelsey McGowan, Eva Wesley and Sarah Beckham.
The statement of claim also seeks a 10-day restraining order barring any member of the group from coming within 100 metres of NAN’s financial office on Fort William First Nation, leased offices on Victoria Avenue in Thunder Bay.
It also requests the group immediately vacate the NAN financial office.
According to the suit, the plaintiff, without advance knowledge, began occupying NAN’s financial officer and have remained there ever since, despite several request by NAN leadership asking them to leave.
Trespass notices were served on at least two occasions, but to no avail.
NAN also claims the occupation has resulted in financial losses and damage, the details of which they plan to present at trial.
The First Nation’s organization also states it has had to provide counseling to employees “to deal with the stress and aggravation caused by the defendants’ occupation of the finance officer trailer.”
They’ve also had to hire security guards, adding that delivery of service has been delayed because of the sit-in.
NAN also alleges the protestors have used office supplies and made long-distance phone calls without permission.
Lawyer Peter Hollinger requested in the statement of claim that the action be tried in Thunder Bay.
Nishnawbe Aski Nation has been contacted for comment, but were not immediately available.
