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APRIL 17, 2000

At a human rights and energy issues conference, a Canadian Cree leader criticized the effects of a hydroelectric plant in Canada on his people's way of life.

John Miswaggon, chief of the Pimicikimak Cree Nation of Cross Lake, Manitoba, told participants that electricity sold by Manitoba Hydro to utility companies in Minnesota is "not clean, it is not renewable for you or for us, and it is not cheap." He spoke of damage to rivers, forests, fisheries, burial grounds, and trapping routes.

A company spokesperson responded that they cannot be blamed for all social ills on the reserve, such as increased suicides. The company has provided $44 Million Canadian to the Cross Lake First Nation and has compensated four other Cree tribes affected by the project.

The conference took place at the University of St. Thomas in Minnesota.

Source:
Canadian Indian chief decries effects of hydroelectric power (Minneapolis Star Tribune 4/17)

Relevant Links:
University of St. Thomas
Manitoba Hydro