The Innu are “surprised” by the negative reaction of the Huron-Wendat, who “worked poorly” by taking for granted that they would have 100% of the Defense lands in Sainte-Foy; the innu nation ensures that it has a structuring project for the hectares allocated to it and that it will build it with a dozen aboriginal communities.
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“We were awfully surprised by the reaction. Because that’s good news. We were greatly satisfied,” comments the chief of the Mashteuiatsh band council, Gilbert Dominique. Passing through Quebec, he was reacting to the announcement by the Minister of National Defence, Anita Anand, to cede to the Innus 20% of the former military district of Sainte-Foy, located behind the shopping centers. Last week, the Huron-Wendat, supported by the mayor of Quebec, defended this decision, they who hoped to take possession of the entire 11-hectare land.
Interest from 2018
The Huron-Wendat “worked badly” by putting all their eggs in one basket, says Mr. Dominique. He recalls that the Innu have expressed an interest in these lands since 2018 and that they have recognized territorial rights in Quebec. Their ancestors were present on the territory and controlled the traffic there, before colonization pushed them to withdraw towards the north, relates the chief.
For his part, he is delighted with the portion granted to the Innu. “It’s two hectares that we will take possession of to develop a structuring project. That’s more than enough for us,” says Mr. Dominique. “We want to have a foothold in one of the parts of our traditional territory.”
A dozen communities
The project in question will integrate a dozen Aboriginal communities with which the Innu have been in discussion for several years; notably the Abenakis, the Attikameks and the Malecites. All are considering forming a consortium of investors.
The plans are not defined, but the objective is to build one or more buildings that will make way for businesses, offices and premises for the First Nations. Housing is also in the plans, both for students and for members of the community who pass through the capital for health care. A place of culture and memory is also envisaged.
The plots of Sainte-Foy, advantageously located, are highly coveted. “What we want is not to make a buck, argues Mr. Dominique. It is to build a structuring project that will meet the needs of the communities.”