The Canadian government has created a buffer zone to keep Native and non-Native fisherman apart in Miramichi Bay, New Brunswick.

The buffer zone, where no fishing is allowed, is meant to avoid conflict. Non-Natives have turned violent in recent years, destroying fishing equipment owned by Natives and confronting Native fishermen.

Natives don't want to see that happen again but the Burnt Church First Nation says the buffer zone violates their treaty rights. Canada's top court has ruled that Mi'kmaq and Maliseet Natives have a right to fish and earn a moderate living from it.

Get the Story:
Native fishermen issue ultimatum (CBC 6/6)

Relevant Links:
The Marshall Case, Department of Fisheries and Oceans - www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/COMMUNIC/Marshall/marshall_e.htm
Fishing Fury, from the CBC: cbc.ca/news/indepth/fishingfury/index.html

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