Winneway Aki - In response to the Bureau d'audiences publiques sur l'environnement (BAPE) press release dated October 21, 2024, Long Point First Nation (LPFN) wishes to affirm its unceded traditional territory and assert its Anicinabe rights and titles during the BAPE hearings concerning the Falco Horne 5 Mining Project. LPFN hosted the BAPE panel on October 3, 2024, at the Amo Ososwan School Gymnasium in Winneway, where LPFN members and leadership voiced strong concerns about the impacts of the project on Anicinabe lands and resources.
Chief Henry Rodgers emphasized the importance of this public hearing, stating: "lt was important for the BAPE to come to Winneway to hear and learn about the preoccupations and concerns of its community members about the Horne 5 project. As Anicinabek, we all have a responsibility to take care of Mother Earth, especially if it involves LPFN's unceded traditional territory. LPFN needs to know the impacts of such a project."
LPFN asserts its rights on its unceded traditional territory and that the project must secure LPFN's prior, informed consent. Without consent, there will be no project. This was the message shared with the Falco representatives present during the hearings.
LPFN also wishes to reiterate its appreciation for the BAPE Commission for agreeing to conduct the public hearing on the Falco Horne 5 Project on unceded traditional territory. We commend all those who intervened, those who went up to the mic, and those who attended to show support, even if they did not speak publicly. Across all sessions, a total of 49 participants asked questions or expressed opinions on the project, including 18 participants from LPFN during the sessions held in Winneway on October 3.
With this, LPFN hopes the Commission's report, scheduled for January 10, 2025, will reflect our community's position and affirm the necessity of obtaining LPFN's consent before proceeding with the project.
LPFN remains committed to protecting our land and resources for future generations, and we will continue to engage in meaningful dialogue with developers to ensure our rights and interests are respected.
About Long Point First Nation
Long Point First Nation is a proud Anicinabe community located in the Abitibi-Témiscamingue region of Quebec. We are dedicated to protecting and stewarding our unceded traditional territory, preserving our culture, and ensuring the well-being of our people.
Contact:
Bradley Polson, Communications Officer, Long Point First Nation, [email protected], phone: 819 722-2441 ex. 261, cell: 873 998-3590
