Speaking notes for an announcement by

the Honourable Jim Prentice, PC, QC, MP
Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development
and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians

Bringing Stability to the Caledonia Region

House of Commons
March 29, 2007

Check against delivery

Good afternoon. I'm happy to have this opportunity to announce new efforts being undertaken by Canada's New Government that will advance negotiations with Six Nations and help to bring peace and stability to the Caledonia region.

I am confident that these efforts will move us further down the road towards a resolution to this situation.

Firstly, we are poised to enter into a new phase of discussions with the Haudenosaunee/Six Nations and the Province of Ontario. We are confident that we can build on the good work that has been accomplished at the negotiating table to date and bring these complex and long standing grievances closer to resolution.

We have expanded our negotiation mandate in order to allow more flexibility to move these historical claims forward. This new phase of discussions will refocus negotiations and direct efforts to claims where Canada agrees it has issues for negotiation.

We are committed to finding common solutions through dialogue - with this expanded negotiation mandate we are equipping negotiators with the right tools to advance discussions and move these issues forward towards resolution.

By means of this expanded mandate we are renewing our efforts to continue the progress that is already underway. Since discussions began in April, 2006, there have been 23 main table and approximately 180 side table meetings. These have been instrumental in bringing calm to the area.

I am also announcing a $26.4 million payment to the Province of Ontario, to cover extraordinary costs incurred as a result of the occupation near Caledonia.

The Government recognizes that the events in Caledonia have engendered unique expenses by the Province of Ontario. This ex gratia payment of $26.4 million includes $15.8 million towards the acquisition by the Province of the Douglas Creek Estates properties, and $10.6 million to offset Ontario's extraordinary policing costs.

I would like to recognize the efforts and dedication of the Honourable Barbara McDougall, the Federal Representative to these negotiations. She and Ron Doering, federal negotiator, have worked very hard to ease tensions in the area and I have every confidence in their experience and commitment.

Negotiators on this issue are dealing with difficult and complex questions that stem from one of the oldest land claims in Canada. With patience and mutual respect, I know that we will get this situation resolved.