Letter to the editor

Letter to the Editor

August 28, 2012

First District Meeting: Kahwennoke

At the district meeting on Kahwennoke last night many topics were covered and concerns from the members were addressed. There were approximately a dozen members present.

One of the major concerns is the non-existent water line for the eastern portion of the island. One family has no water supply due to contaminants in their water supply. How long do the people have to wait for water? The rest of the island has had water for a number of years. It is imperative that the water line be installed as soon as possible! Do we need people to die from poor water quality before something is done?

One of the other topics that arose out of discussion was taxation. Self-government is going to lead us into becoming a municipality and the real possibility of taxation.

The “good standing” policy in regards to Mohawk Council of Akwesasne and the programs that are offered was another touchy subject. One program that was mentioned is the Healthy Homes project. Hopefully, the members that need assistance to create a healthy home will receive it no matter what their standing is with MCA.

People have had work interrupted when it came to traffic fines that were not paid. Payment had to be made before the RAP grant could be completed. That brings up the question: do we following the provincial highway acts on reserve, or do we follow the Indian Reserve Traffic Act.

Another issue is the hiring of a prosecutor. The former prosecutor was not a member of the Quebec Bar Association but had an office in Akwesasne, Quebec. A search for a new prosecutor has begun and this person should be a member of the Law Society of Upper Canada as well as the Quebec Bar.

Does the former prosecutor not being a member of the Quebec Bar mean that all of his prosecutions done in Quebec are invalid? Is there validity to the legal work that he did from his office in Quebec? Did MCA realize the implications that not being a member of the Quebec Bar has put MCA into a precarious position?

These were just a few of the topics that were discussed last night. There is a general meeting on Thursday evening. I am sure that there will be more discussions on these topics!

Beverly Pyke