The Peguis First Nation put out the following news release regarding an upcoming rally at the Manitoba Legislative Assembly, in opposition to new peat mining licences granted by the Manitoba government.

Join us in standing with our First Nations allies to put an end to the Manitoba "peat rush"!

For Immediate Release - May 7, 2013

CHIEFS RALLY AT MANITOBA LEGISLATIVE BUILDING

Peguis, Manitoba - Peguis First Nation with support from Fisher River First Nation and Kinonjeoshtegon First Nation will be conducting a rally at the Manitoba Legislative Building on Thursday, May 9, 2013 at 11:30 a.m. The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs, the Southern Chiefs Organization and other First Nations have been invited to lend support to these three Interlake First Nations.

When Manitoba (the Crown) issued leases and licences to 3 peat mining companies (Sunterra, Sun Gro, Berger) it did not consult with the First Nation in the region.

Peguis First Nation with Fisher River First Nation and Kinonjeoshtegon First nation are requesting an immediate moratorium on all leases and licences for peat mining operations in the Interlake. Furthermore, the three First Nations are requesting that all peat mining leases and licences in the Interlake be revoked.

It is also recommended that the Province (the Crown) undertake and complete a comprehensive review of its policies and practices on all matters relating to peat mining in the Interlake and Manitoba regions.

The three First Nations are taking this action to protect:

• The environment
• Aboriginal and treaty rights
• The duty to consult and accommodate
• Traditional medicines
• The habitat of moose

For further information, contact:

Councillor Mike Sutherland     (204) 645-2359 | (204) 330-4371

OR

Lloyd Stevenson                    (204) 645-2359 | (204) 223-0195