We are supporting Grassy Narrows First Nation and nearby mercury-affected communities in their call for a National Inquiry into the historic and continuing impact of mercury poisoning and other contamination.

This Inquiry is necessary as a result of continued pressure on the Grassy Narrows community from industrial forestry, the devastation of their traditional economy and livelihood, and continuing health impacts. The health of community members in Grassy Narrows and nearby mercury-affected communities continues to deteriorate. Two generations after the Dryden pulp mill released pollution into the English-Wabigoon river system, children are still being born with health problems from mercury and other contamination.

As we find ourselves upon the 8th anniversary of the blockade against clearcutting in Grassy Narrows’ territory, and following upon AFN Resolution No. 04/2010, Support for Grassy Narrows and Other Mercury Impacted Communities,

1. WE CALL ON the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario to hold a National Inquiry to assess the historic and continuing impact of mercury and other contamination in Grassy Narrows and the surrounding communities, to evaluate the success of efforts to date to address this issue, and make recommendations on effective next steps. We urge Canada and Ontario to each take responsibility, under their respective jurisdictions, by calling this inquiry by March 1, 2011

2. WE RESOLVE THAT, should Canada and Ontario fail to take their responsibility, the responsibility for holding this inquiry will fall upon First Nation governments and we will meet that responsibility. With the support of the Assembly of First Nations, a national inquiry would then be held under the jurisdiction of Grand Council Treaty #3 and Grassy Narrows First Nation.

Links