Backgrounder

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The situation faced by people living in Caledonia and the surrounding areas over the past months has been very difficult. Since the beginning of the protest at Douglas Creek, Ontario has been working hard with representatives of Canada, Six Nations leadership and municipal officials to resolve the matters under dispute.

Progress Made

• Appointed Hon. David Peterson as provincial lead to help find solutions to immediate problems
• Argyle Street barricade removed and reopened to traffic
• Six Nations/Haudenosaunee-Canada-Ontario Main Negotiation Table established to resolve longer-term issues
• Appointed Hon. Jane Stewart as provincial representative at Main Negotiation Table
• The barricades on Highway 6 overpass and railway line are removed
• Community Liaison Table established with membership from the province, local council, business and community leaders to ensure open lines of communication
• Toll-free info-line established for local residents to receive updates
• Douglas Creek Estates property purchased and is being held in trust pending final outcome of Main Negotiation Table
• Main Negotiation Table has established four Side Tables to discuss: archaeological and appearance issues; Plank Road/Douglas Creek land issues; educational and public awareness strategies for Haudenosaunee traditions, languages, history and culture; issues related to development and impacts on Haudenosaunee/Six Nations
• Implemented a business assistance program to help with recovery of businesses negatively affected by the blockade and subsequent events - have already assisted more than 100 local businesses
• Provided $160,000 to Haldimand County for the development and execution of a marketing strategy to promote local business
• Established a Residence Assistance Program to help with the financial impacts faced by residents most affected by the occupation
• Opened a satellite office of the Ontario Secretariat for Aboriginal Affairs in Brantford to support provincial participation in the Main Negotiation Table

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Contacts:

Rosemary Sampson
Ontario Secretariat for Aboriginal Affairs
(416) 326-4780

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