Crees in Quebec win legal battle about the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act
The Grand Council of the Crees (http://www.gcc.ca) are fighting a legal battle with the Federal and Quebec governments along with Quebec Hydro over the continued development of new dams that are flooding their traditional territories and destroying their way of life. The following presentation of the Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee) and of The Cree Regional Authority about The Eastmain 1-A Rupert Project, by Deputy Grand Chief Ashley Iserhoff was given on May 4, 2006
PREAMBLE
I want to begin this presentation by rendering homage to the late Sam Awashish who recently lost his life on his trapline, by falling through the ice on a lake. This was an experienced hunter, trapper and fisherman who is, to some extent, a victim of the climate changes which are affecting James Bay. In James Bay, increased reservoirs have contributed to unpredictable ice conditions and climate changes which have resulted in trappers being unable to predict weather patterns as they did before. This shows us that concern for the environment is a matter which resonates very close to home for all of us.
Sam's knowledge of the land provided guidance and allowed healing of our hurts and pains as a result of dramatic changes within Eeyou lstchee. His transfer and sharing of his knowledge to own children and youth is an inspiration to all of us who want to keep the Cree Nation closely tied to the land and to our traditions and culture. I wish to dedicate this presentation to the memoryof Sam Awashish.