The Anicinape community of Kitcisakik is gaining autonomy thanks to a framework agreement signed Friday with Ottawa. “This signing means a lot to our community,” said the head of the council, Régis Penosway, in a telephone interview on the sidelines of the announcement.
He believes that this framework agreement, a prelude to more in-depth discussions with the government on all issues of federal jurisdiction, will “change a lot of business”, particularly in terms of land management and economic development.
Self-government and the protection of culture and traditional activities will also be part of the discussions. The Council of Kitcisakik will also gain flexibility in the management of funds that come from the federal government, and which are generally linked to specific services, leaving it little leeway to deal with other priorities identified in the community. “We will be able to renegotiate these envelopes,” rejoices Chief Penosway.
In particular, he believes that it would be possible to seek additional budgets in connection with the possible relocation of the community, located in the Vérendrye park, an hour’s drive from Val d’Or, in Abitibi-Témiscamingue. Drinking water supply is also an issue in this village of less than 300 inhabitants. An agreement was also concluded last year with Quebec and Hydro-Quebec for the electrification of the village.
Crown-Indigenous Relations Minister Marc Miller was on hand Friday for the occasion. “This framework agreement paves the way for dialogue and collaboration on key issues that will shape the future of Kitcisakik,” he said in a press release. This signing is an important step towards reconciliation and the renewal of relations between Kitcisakik and Canada. »
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