Rick Garrick — Wawatay News

Nibinamik’s Don Sofea is concerned about the impact Noront Resources Ltd.’s proposal to transport mineral concentrate to Savant Lake could have on his traditions.
“If I fast right in the centre of where the development is going to be, that is a spiritual abuse,” said the Nibinamik health director. “That means I’m being disturbed from my own wilderness for healing. That is why they need to consult everyone, because everybody has a different way of surviving. Some may be fishermen, some may be hunters, some may be in the line of healing and wellness.”

Nishnawbe Aski Nation chiefs are looking to hold a dedicated conference on the universal vote before this summer’s Keewaywin Conference.
“We have to organize something as soon as possible because the chiefs are saying they hope to have more information before August so they are in a position to make an informed decision on how to proceed,” said Grand Chief Stan Beardy after the March 22-24 NAN Winter Chiefs meeting in Timmins.
Beardy also suggested using a survey or canvassing community members to gather more input on the universal vote issue.

The late William Winter is remembered for his love for the people, his kindness and his humility.
“No matter what happened, if he was facing a difficult situation as an archdeacon, he always looked for the good in it and to make things right again,” said Anglican Church Bishop Lydia Mamakwa of the northern Ontario region of the Keewatin diocese and one of Winter’s nieces. “That is what he always strived for. He said whenever someone falls or makes a mistake, you help them get up again.”
Winter, 89, passed away March 31 with his family at his side in Sioux Lookout.

The Assembly of First Nations is concerned about the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal’s recent dismissal of a 2007 complaint about unequal funding for First Nation children in the child welfare system.
“We are very disappointed with this ruling by the Tribunal which seems to suggest it is acceptable for the federal government to treat our children unequally and unfairly,” said National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo.

The winter roads are still open and in good shape.
“I came home this past Sunday – the road was good,” said Bearskin Lake Deputy Chief Wes Nothing March 25. “We’re still hauling. There are no problems. Another semi-truck came in today.”
Nothing said his community has brought in just about everything they had planned to acquire this winter road season, including 14 double-walled 10,000-gallon fuel tanks for a new fuel farm.