Six Nations complained for more than 175 years that it was ripped off when the Welland Canal flooded some of its land near Dunnville. Two months ago, the federal government offered $26 million in compensation. Now, the federal government's chief negotiator is complaining that Six Nations hasn't moved fast enough to accept the offer.
In an interview with The Expositor this week, federal negotiator Ron Doering urged Six Nations to pick up the slow pace of negotiations. He would like a response to the federal offer made in December.
The federal government has made two offers. In May 2007, the government offered $125 million to settle the Welland Canal claim, the Six Nations' investment in the Grand River Navigation Company, Moulton Township and the Burtch Tract.
In December, the government offered $26 million to settle the Welland Canal claim alone. If this offer is accepted, the $125-million offer will be withdrawn.
You can't blame Six Nations for taking time to consider the two offers. Natives want to know how the government arrived at the figures of $125 million and $26 million.
Six Nations wants the government to release funding to pay to consult people. Community agreement will be essential to settle land claims.
Naturally, Six Nations is cautious as it deals with the government's first offers. How it reacts will set the pattern for further settlements.
A community meeting at Ohsweken last week explained the Welland Canal offer to about 350 people. More meetings will be needed to gain acceptance.
Six Nations cannot be faulted for taking care in its response.
The two-year anniversary of the native occupation of the former Douglas Creek Estates is two weeks away.
Although it's good to see progress, after 175 years progress can't be rushed.