NOTICE OF MI’KMAQ ABORIGINAL AND TREATY RIGHTS

April 11, 2007

The Bras d’Or First Nation, on behalf of its members, issues this Public Notice to all non-Aboriginal parties about the continuing existence of our rights to traditional Mi’kmaq territory in the greater Bras d’Or area of Cape Breton, land deemed to be part of traditional Mi’kmaq hunting and fishing territory.

The Mi’kmaq Community of Bras d’Or is stating its position publicly.

The Bras d’Or First Nation contends that a treaty negotiated in Cape Breton between Britain and the Mi’kmaq Nation around the end of the eighteenth century recognized Mi’kmaq territorial rights.

The Bras d’Or First Nation also contends that following a Federal Supreme Court decision in British Columbia in 2004, the provincial governments have an obligation to consult with First Nation people prior to granting licenses and/or permits to develop land they define as traditional territory. Consequently, any individual, corporation or association undertaking any kind of development or use of traditional Mi’kmaq territory in Bras d'Or should be aware that such undertakings may carry with it the risk of a legal challenge.

All non-Aboriginal parties intending to use land and resources claimed by the Mi’kmaq people in Bras d’Or are now given NOTICE that there are pre-existing Mi’kmaq Aboriginal and Treaty Rights for the community of Little Bras d’Or and other adjacent communities.

Bras d'Or First Nation
781 Sydney Mines, Cape Breton, NS
CANADA B1V 2L6