Stephen Harper cabinet has discussed funding an unspecified "infrastructure" on DCE

As Caledonia turns

By 24 HOURS NEWS SERVIVES - Vancouver
March 15, 2007

The Stephen Harper cabinet has discussed funding an unspecified "infrastructure" project on land that is at centre of the Caledonia, Ont. standoff, according to Immigration Minister Diane Finley.

In a press release distributed locally Tuesday, Finley, who is the local MP, said she has asked cabinet to approve funding for the unspecified project.

"Regarding the Caledonia occupation, the minster reaffirmed her role as representing the interest of Caledonia in the dispute and indicated that she has been lobbying her colleagues for financial support for a new infrastructure facility on the site after the occupation," said the press release, based on a speech Finley gave to the local Rotary Club.

"I'm hoping that we can identify a project that will be of benefit to both communities, one that will benefit families and one which will be of lasting value to the area," the press release quotes Finley as saying.

Six Nations seized Douglas Creek Estates from a private developer about a year ago. They say the land is theirs and that they have final say on what happens on their territory.

News that the government is discussing the future of the land internally while negotiating a resolution with Six Nations came as a surprise to Indian Affairs Minister Jim Prentice's office.

No clarification was available from Finley's office yesterday.