Katlodeeche First Nation Decides to Keep its Reserve
The Chief of the Katlodeeche First Nation told the Dehcho First Nation leadership in Zhatie Kue (Ft Providence) this week that his community would be withdrawing from Dehcho First Nations in order to pursue a land claim that would retain the Hay River Reserve.
Chief Roy Fabian told leaders that the negotiations of the Dehcho Process does not satisfy the interest of his Band members to maintain their autonomy as a Reserve. Because the Reserve existed when the Dehcho Process began, the Katlodeeche has been in a parallel process to explore a community based claim that would enable them to keep their reserve status.
Grand Chief Herb Norwegian says their news doesn’t come as a surprise. “We always knew this was a possibility. They’ve decided to continue to live under the Indian Act on lands designated as a Reserve by the Federal government. That has always been an option for them from day one. It’s good they have finally stated their preference. We, in the DFN remain united and will continue to pursue our goal to protect as much land as possible in Dehcho territory.”
Dehcho First Nation leaders extended support for KFN as they attempt to resolve their interest with Canada.
Negotiator for the Dehcho will be back at the negotiating table next week.
For further information contact: Grand Chief Herb Norwegian 867 695-2355