NORTHERN PENINSULA, NL – The Mekap’sk Mi’kmaq Band continues to move forward with formalizing its claim over the Northern Peninsula region of Newfoundland.
The band issued a formal assertion of Aboriginal title to the federal government on March 1, and formal claim letters have now also been delivered to the provincial government.
Earlier this week, on Monday, March 19, Mekap’sk Mi’kmaq Chief Mildred Lavers delivered a copy of the assertion letter in person to St. Barbe-L'Anse aux Meadows MHA Christopher Mitchelmore.
“We can no longer be ignored in our own lands,” Lavers said in a news release.
“The province needs to recognize our rights and stop making decisions that injure our claim.”
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Northern Peninsula’s Mekap'sk Mi'kmaq Band formally asserts Aboriginal title for region
The band has made several demands from the province, including the implementation of Aboriginal harvesting and fishing rights.
They also want to be consulted on environmental projects occurring on or near the land and waters in question, and are seeking the creation of culturally appropriate education and training programs.
The assertion letter also demands the provincial government negotiate the lands rights of the Mekap’sk.
The Mekap’sk Mi’kmaq Band is recognized and protected as a First National Band under the Constitution Act, representing roughly 1,200 Mi’kmaq people.
