Media Advisory: First Nation Chiefs Confront Alberta Government on Lower Athabasca Regional Plan

EDMONTON, ALBERTA— Chief Roxanne Marcel of the Mikisew Cree First Nation and Chief Allan Adam of the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation will meet with Alberta Government Ministers, and then host a press conference in Edmonton.

With concerns over tar sands development and environmental and health problems in the area, the Government of Alberta is under an international spotlight to address the problems. Violations of Constitutionally-protected Treaty rights pose a serious concern that can result in litigation, intervention from the Federal government, and investor insecurity.

Pointing out Treaty and Constitutional rights, the Chiefs have repeatedly communicated concerns with earlier versions of the draft Lower Athabasca Regional Plan (LARP), while putting forward constructive solutions on how to move forward. June 6, 2011 is the closing day for public consultation on the draft LARP.

Local community members and Elders will be joined by Dr. David Schindler, water scientist.

Who: Chief Allan Adam — Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation
  Chief Roxanne Marcel — Mikisew Cree First Nation
  Dr. David Schindler — water scientist
What: Press Conference regarding the Lower Athabasca Land Use Plan, and the Chiefs' meeting with Government. Coffee and tea will be served.
When: Monday June 6, 2011 at 3:00pm
Where: Prism Room - Matrix Hotel (10640 100 Avenue NW Edmonton)

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For more information or to arrange interviews contact:

  • David Thompson, 780-910-4161
  • Sheila Muxlow, 780-660-0312