Canada rejects Dakota and Lakota aboriginal rights

Thursday, August 2, 2007  

The Dakota and Lakota people do not have aboriginal rights in Canada, the Department of Indian and Northern Affairs says.

The Dakota and Lakota First Nations have occupied Manitoba and Saskatchewan since at least the 18th century. But they were left out of treaties and the government says they have no land rights.

Roger Redman, the chief of Standing Buffalo Dakota First Nation in Saskatchewan, said he wasn't surprised by the decision. His tribe has filed a claim in federal court.

The government still wants to meet with nine Dakota and Lakota bands to discuss their issues.

Get the Story:
Ottawa rejects claims by Dakota, Lakota First Nations (CBC 8/1)

$rl Indian and Northern Affairs Canada - http://www.ainc-inac.gc.ca