The blockade solution

A proposed blockade near Marten Falls might be the only way to get the government to listen, says Matawa’s Ring of Fire co-ordinator.

Raymond Ferris said blockades, like one that took place on Jan. 19, 2010 near the Marten Falls access point to the Ring of Fire, have been the only way to have the concerns of many First Nation communities heard.

"It’s been the First Nations’ only alternative as far as getting attention of the government. Laws are being passed and we’ve told them many times we want to be involved from the very beginning," Ferris said Wednesday at the NAN economic conference.

Ferris told those in attendance at the conference that he takes his direction from leadership within Matawa First Nation communities and would support a blockade if it came down to it.

"If the communities decide to go that route, then yes, I will support any kind of actions our communities need to take," Ferris said.

Being involved is a starting point, he said.  But funding for Matawa communities is necessary before discussions can begin.

"We want to be in a position to be able to participate in development and participate in any sort of decision making that goes on," Ferris said. "There has to be some things on the table before we can even meet with them."

Minister of Aboriginal Affairs Chris Bentley, Minister of Mines Michael Gravelle and Minister of Natural Resources Linda Jeffrey are expected at the conference for its third and final day Thursday. Ferris said he’s hopeful that all parties involved can negotiate together.

"At some point and time they’ll have to listen," said Ferris.

NAN deputy grand chief Les Louttit said the second day of the conference Wednesday was very engaging and he was pleased with the 191 person turnout.

The goal of the conference is to develop a regional economic development framework for NAN, he said.