Canadian native groups cancel CN Rail blockade

Reuters
Wed Jun 28, 2006 4:27 pm ET

[SISIS note: The following mainstream news article is provided for reference only, as an example of how mainstream media treats indigenous resistance to genocide. Mainstream media often presents biased and distorted information, lacking pertinent facts and/or context. Inclusion of this article on our site should not be considered an endorsement by SISIS.]

WINNIPEG, Manitoba, June 28 (Reuters) - Canadian aboriginal groups canceled a planned blockade of Canadian National Railway lines set for Thursday, after the company agreed to lobby Ottawa to help resolve natives' outstanding land claims, both groups said on Wednesday.

"They will be holding rallies. We understand two of them are adjacent to the track, but they promised that they will in no way interfere with rail operations and that they will keep their members safe, of course. CN has accepted their word," said railway spokesman Jim Feeny.

CN Rail had asked the courts to stop Indian groups in the western province of Manitoba from carrying out threats to block rail lines in an effort to draw attention to their land claims disputes with the federal government. The groups requested on Wednesday that the matter be put aside in court after each had made oral commitments.

"CN has also agreed to write a letter to the minister of Indian and Northern Affairs requesting that he do everything in his power to speedily resolve the land claims issues that are presently before the First Nations and the government of Canada," Feeny said.

Rondeau [sic - should read "Roseau"] River First Nation Chief Terrance Nelson said his community will rally next to a CN line about 100 km (60 miles) south of Winnipeg that leads south to the United States. Another group intends to rally at a domestic CN line, he said.