MOU between Kahnawa:ke and the Quebec government

A significant gathering today in Tio’tia:ke, where Ohenton Í:rate ne Ratsisahiens Cody Diabo and Quebec Premier François Legault took part in a ceremony for the signing of a Declaration of Understanding and mutual respect. Premier Legault on this new strengthening of relationship:

“I want to personally thank Grand Chief Cody Diabo and his team for negotiating with us in good faith and for our mutual benefit. Today’s Memorandum of Understanding is for me, an historic step, it’s a step, so we’ll have other steps after but it’s a step that demonstrates the trust between Quebec and Kahnawa:ke.”

Diabo on the significance of the MOU:

“This statement of (Memorandum of) Understanding and mutual respect embodies our collective effort to establish a foundation for constructive dialogue, practical cooperation and a peaceful coexistence. It represents years of hard work and the willingness of both parties to address issues directly and respectfully.” 

Legault says this agreement will help get the 213 acres owed from the Autoroute 30 project and finally settle the Autoroute 30 land dispute, land the government promised to the community when the Autoroute was built. Legault saying he is quite sure they’ve found at least 180 acres and they’re working on locating the rest. Legault discussed a range of interest to Kahnawa:ke including the 132, the Mercier bridge file and the Northolt battery plant construction in the Monteregie. He says today’s MOU will help in all further discussions.

The intention is to lay the foundations for a constructive political relationship based on dialogue, committing to work together, respect each other’s unique perspectives and strive for improved mutual understanding. On hand were Ohenton Í:rate ne Ratsisahiens Cody Diabo, Ratsénhaienhs Jeffrey Diabo, from MCK’s Kahnawà:ke–Québec Relations, Quebec Premier François Legault and Ian Lafrenière, the Minister responsible for relations with First Nations and the Inuit.