For Immediate Release
March 7, 2007
GRAND RIVER TERRITORY SIX NATIONS--Negotiations between Six Nations, Canada and Ontario came to an abrupt halt today when an altercation broke out between Elected Chief Administrator Dave General and community members who had congregated outside the Oneida Business Park complex shortly before noon today.
Main table negotiations were ongoing inside when Six Nations Chief Administrator David General became involved in a verbal altercation with two community members who were questioning his attendance at negotiations. General has publicly stated on numerous occasions that he does not support the ongoing negotiations.
The shouting match continued with General shoving the men and attempting to push his way into the building where the negotiations were occurring. As a result of the incident, Federal and Provincial representatives advised that they did not feel comfortable in continuing with negotiations today. Federal and provincial negotiators further advised Haudenosaunee/Six Nations Negotiators that they would not get involved in an internal Six Nations matter, and supported Six Nations internal mechanisms to resolve the incident. Prior to leaving, they confirmed the next main table meeting scheduled for March 22, 2007.
Haudenosaunee/Six Nations negotiators regret the event, and an Emergency Community Meeting has been scheduled for Saturday, March 10, 2007 at 7:00 p.m. at Six Nations Polytechnic to allow the community to address David General’s participation in the on-going talks.
Mr. General is also invited to attend along with all band councilors to address the situation. Lead negotiator, Mohawk Chief Allen MacNaughton urged the community to remain calm. “It is deeply regretful that this incident occurred, but it is understandable. Community members have
been upset and concerned about Mr. General’s actions for some time. We invite Mr. General to attend this emergency community meeting and explain his actions to the community,” he said. “At the same time we hope this will not hold up negotiations or any progress we have made to date.” The incident is the second altercation involving Mr. General since his election. Almost a year ago Mr. General attacked a local reporter during a press conference.
For further information, contact:
Media Liaison
Lynda Powless