Manitoba Wildlands  
East Side Planning Funds Not Released 22 February 07

Manitoba Government logoDespite budget commitments and announcements in summer 2006, the Manitoba Government has not provided support for east side First Nations to undertake land use planning.

In the March 2006 budget, the Province committed to:
  • Providing resources for the Wabanong Nakaygum Okimawin to support community planning along the east side of Lake Winnipeg
  • Providing additional resources for the First Nations-Manitoba-Ontario UNESCO World Heritage Site nomination
In August 2006, Conservation Minister Stan Struthers announced $500,000 to "support land-use planning on the East Side of Lake Winnipeg." through the Wabanong Nakaygum Okimawin (WNO). To date, communities have not been able to access these funds.

A recent, February 2007 announcement of funds to assist First Nations involved in the east side World Heritage Site(WHS) undertaking also does not include support for the community lands use plans essential for WHS evaluation and listing.

"After five years of meetings its time for the Manitoba government to actually support lands planning, release funds announced, and fulfill their commitments," said Gaile Whelan Enns, director, Manitoba Wildlands.

View the March 6, 2006 Government of Manitoba press release
View the August 16, 2006 Government of Manitoba press release
View Manitoba Wildlands' August 17, 2006 news item

Source: Government of Manitoba


Manitoba Wildlands2002-2014