Brant County is asking Brant MP Lloyd St. Amand for help in getting an answer from the federal Department of Indian and Northern Affairs about the ownership of tow path lands in Middleport.The tow path, at one time used to tow barges up the Grand River, is the subject of a Six Nations land claims dispute. In April 2006, a native smoke shop opened on tow path land in Middleport, within Brant County on property zoned for residential purposes.
The request for St. Amand's help was brought forward by Coun. Joan Gatward, who said Middleport residents are frustrated by a lack of answers from the federal government.
"They promised us an answer by the 15th of August and we don't have it yet," Gatward said. "This is an urgent matter for the community of Middleport and we're tired of waiting."