Expect more Caledonia-type clashes: Expert

Hamilton Spectator
Ottawa (Jun 28, 2006)

[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.]

An aboriginal expert says more Caledonia-type conflicts are brewing as the number of native land claims nears 800 and the average wait time for settlements tops nine years.

Cynthia Wesley-Esquimaux, who teaches aboriginal studies at the University of Toronto and has helped write and research several land claims, predicts more high-profile clashes.

"That's exactly what's going to happen because one of the messages that gets transmitted is: Unless you become a hot spot, nobody's going to sit down with you and do any negotiating."

Frustration over land claims most recently erupted in Caledonia in a series of nasty confrontations over a subdivision on land claimed by Six Nations.

Darrell Doxtdator, legal adviser to the Six Nations Band Council, said last night the native occupation of the Douglas Creek Estates has made Ottawa more aware change is needed.

"We would look forward to concrete proposals for improvements in the (claims) resolution system," he said.

Indian Affairs Minister Jim Prentice says he plans a major "retooling" of a badly flawed system that critics blame for rising tensions and stunted development.

A three-day conference starting today in Quebec will gather experts on ways to push for improvements.

With files from John Burman, The Hamilton Spectator