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The exploratory team sent by MPT, in cooperation with CPT (Christian Peacemaker Teams), spent their time in the Sharbot Lake/Robertsville area speaking with as many interested factions as possible about the preliminary uranium drilling. These groups included the Ardoch Algonquin Nation, the Shabot Obaadjiwan Algonquin First Nation, the MELT team of the OPP stationed in this area, many non-aboriginal settlers in the area, a minister of a local United Church of Canada, and a settler (in favor of drilling). The illegalities of the matter (both local and provincial) are complicated. Bob Lovelace (Ardoch former chief) was still jailed at the time of this report, and others await sentencing-- including First Nations leaders, some non-aboriginal settlers, and reportedly members of the OPP MELT team. According to CPT, there are two main camps of objectors: 1) those who oppose drilling based upon environmental and health issues, and 2) those who oppose drilling on a land rights/legal basis
Details from a recent CPT memo summarized the situation clearly: “Uranium drilling as an environmental issue – there are huge health risks associated with disturbance of this area, as well as the inevitable waste that would be created. In addition, there are very few, if any, environmental standards or safeguards that exploratory or mining companies are required to adhere to. Uranium drilling as a land rights issue. The Canadian constitution gives provinces control their mineral resources. But that same constitution requires that provinces consult with First Nations before allowing any exploration for minerals that disturbs land that has been traditionally occupied by First Nations people. This has not happened. Through the wide permissions of the Ontario Mining Act (which is directly in conflict with the federal duty to consult First Nations), Frontenac Ventures received rights to drill the land without any permission or advance notice to the First Nations or settlers living in the area.” Due to the high risk of arrest, the group was unable to spend any time at the actual blockade site. This was disappointing (as a missed chance to connect with others on this issue, or even demonstrate solidarity), but probably prudent considering the mission of the team. The Delegation's final activity in the area was to participate in an awareness demonstration in Kingston, ON, which brought attention to the issue and the arrest of Bob Lovelace. Organizers led the march in front of the MP and MPP's offices, and dispersed flyers. Regarding current initiatives by local people and First Nations: settlers are utilizing city councils and other such channels to voice their opposition to local government officials and seek a moratorium on uranium mining in Ontario. A class action lawsuit is being pursued by at least one group. Others organize letter writing campaigns, rallies, fund-raisers and other awareness-building tools. While the avenues of opposition of the Ardoch Algonquin Nation are virtually exhausted, the Shabot Obaadjiwan Algonquin First Nation is continuing to organize their efforts at this time. |
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