Sucker River Ready To Finalize Land Exchange

Monday, August 22, 2005 at 14:02

Indian Affairs Minister Andy Scott is making an appearance in Sucker River today.

Scott is in the Lac La Ronge Indian Band community to witness a signing ceremony related to a long-awaited land transfer.

Three years ago, band members approved the transfer of several hundred acres of band-owned land near Bittern Lake back to federal control in exchange for more reserve land near Sucker River.

The band is expected to use the newly-acquired land near the community for residential development, among other things.

Band councillor Kenny Ratt says the additional room for housing is certainly welcome, since over 300 residents are currently having to share 67 acres of land in the community.

Ratt says a total of 300 acres is being added to both ends of the existing reserve.

He also says the reserve community has already secured funding for 25 residential lots and an additional 5 lots for an elders home.