Group Set To Test Metis Harvesting Rights

Friday, February 20, 2009 at 13:30

A group of metis citizens plan to lower their nets into an Alberta lake this weekend.

Spokesman for the group, Phillip Chartier, says the group plans to visit Gregoire Lake near Fort McMurray.

He says the reason they’re making the trip is to exercise their right to fish on traditional land.

Chartier says they have informed Alberta Conservation Officers they’re coming.

He says they want government to realize metis rights don’t end at the SAsktachewan-Alberta border.

Chartier knows the trip could result in himself and others being charged.

But he says he would welcome the move.

Chartier points to the Powley decision in Ontario as just one example.

He adds he has notified metis in Alberta about their trip and is looking for support.