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For Immediate Release
March 30, 2001

News Release

Ontario's Webequie First Nation Granted Reserve Lands

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WEBEQUIE FIRST NATION – The Honourable Robert Nault, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development, MP Kenora-Rainy River is pleased to announce that Webequie First Nation in northern Ontario has been granted a reserve by the Government of Canada. Today, Minister Nault joined the community in celebration, and presented a copy of the order-in-council, officially creating the reserve.

"We are a traditional community and our ties to the land are very strong," said Webequie Chief Robert Spence. "This reserve opens the door to development and a brighter future for the people of Webequie. We have plans under way for economic development and building infrastructure to offer greater opportunities for our people."

Webequie's reserve is now one of the five largest Aboriginal communities in Ontario with respect to land mass at 132 square miles. Reserve status for the First Nation allows access to programs such as housing from Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, as well as the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation to meet the housing needs of its membership.

"Today we are reminded of the shared objective all levels of government have in supporting Aboriginal self-reliance," said Minister Nault. "This new reserve will enable Webequie First Nation to take greater control over its own affairs and to create a strong, healthy community."

The Government of Ontario, through the Ministry of Natural Resources, was involved extensively from the onset, and played a key role in assisting the First Nation to obtain its reserve. A key component of the negotiations was that the proposed reserve fell within the provincial Winisk River Park. The Government of Ontario decommissioned the original park and re-established it north of the reserve.

"I am pleased that Webequie First Nation has been granted reserve status," said the Honourable David Young, Ontario's Attorney General and Minister responsible for Native Affairs. "Ontario has provided strong support to the First Nation in its efforts to obtain reserve lands. We encourage the First Nation in its economic development initiatives that will help to strengthen the community and provide for a stable future."

The Webequie First Nation resides on Eastwood Island which is located in the Winisk River. It is about 500 kilometres north of Thunder Bay.

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Don Gauthier
Communications Manager
Indian Affairs and Northern Development
416-973-2281

Glynn Robinson
Information Officer
Ontario Native Affairs Secretariat
416-326-4759