| BC First Nations Concerned About Mine Decision | 23 November 06 |
 The Tse Keh Nay (Takla, Tsay Keh Dene, and Kwadacha First Nations) in British Columbia are calling for more substantive involvement of First Nations in decisions about mining developments.Chief John French of Takla stated "the Environmental Assessment process is still a long way from meaningful involvement of First Nations in decision-making". The Chiefs are frustrated and allege that governments are not following their legal obligations to consult and accommodate First Nations. The Chiefs are also asking whether there can be any real assessment of alternatives when Northgate Minerals insists there only is one option: destroying Amazay (Duncan Lake). The proposed Kemess North copper-gold mine would be built 400 km northwest of Prince George, British Columbia, Canada, and turn Duncan Lake into a tailings pond. "The Tse Keh Nay people are extremely concerned about impacts on the watershed," stated Grand Chief Pierre. "Our people don't believe it is possible to keep all that poison contained in a dam at the top of the watershed. The company will make their millions and leave and we'll be left wondering when the dam will fail and poison the rest of our water." "The Premier made commitments to a New Relationship and shared decision-making with First Nations. It's time to see those good commitments on major projects like this where the potential impacts on our aboriginal rights and our Territory are extremely high." said Chief French. View the October 30, 2006 Takla, Tsay Keh Dene, & Kwadacha First Nations press release View the November 8, 2006 Prince George Free Press article View the Manitoba Wildlands' October 31, 2006 news item Visit the Tse Keh Nay Online website Sources: MiningWatch Canada, Prince George Free Press
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