September 27, 2007
By JOYANNE PURSAGA
Winnipeg Sun
As critics accused the province of failing to enforce the law to end a nearly two-week blockade near Hollow Water First Nation, a cabinet minister confirmed there's no end in sight for the conflict.
Hollow Water band members erected their first set of barriers on two access roads Sept. 14 to protest cottage development on what they consider traditional reserve lands.
Barricades were added at Rice River Road and Beaver Creek Road on Sept. 21 in and around the community, about 190 km northeast of Winnipeg.
"The barricades are illegal," said Tory justice critic Gerald Hawranik during question period yesterday. "Is (the minister) prepared to respect an illegal act or will he do his duty as the minister of justice and enforce that law."
Justice Minister Dave Chomiak said he will leave that decision up to the police.
"I do not direct the police. The police undertake these matters and I rely on the police to determine (what to do)," said Chomiak.
Through a spokesman, Chomiak declined comment after question period.
Conservation Minister Stan Struthers said the province won't budge on its demand the blockade be removed before negotiations can begin.
"We've been very clear in dealing with the chief. The first indication we got there was a problem with cottage lots in that area, we pulled 57 (lots) out," said Struthers. "My door has been open."
Struthers confirmed the barricades are not legal, as they restrict freedom of movement, and said it's not his responsibility to push for penalties.
"It's no position of the conservation minister to interfere in the enforcement of law," he said.
Hollow Water Chief Ian Bushie could not be reached for comment last night. He has previously pledged to keep barriers up until talks begin.
Hollow Water is also prepared to block Provincial Road 304 if necessary.