Arising out of this 1992 Implementation Agreement, Split Lake Cree (Tataskweyak) and Manitoba Hydro entered into negotiations that resulted in an Agreement in Principle signed in October of 2000, with respect to a possible generating station at the Gull Rapids (Keeyask) site within the Split Lake Resource Management Area. While Split Lake Cree (Tataskweyak) are not committed to a generation station being built within the Split Lake Resource Management Area, we are prepared to consider the possibility of one being built. Unlike the past, when a large hydro corporation and governments appeared to do as they please, regardless of the interests of the local peoples, a new direction has taken place as a result of the determination of the Split Lake Cree (Tataskweyak).

The Government of Manitoba recognizes the right of the Split Lake Cree (Tataskweyak) to co-manage resources in the Split Lake Resource Management Area. Manitoba Hydro has recognized the right of the Split Lake Cree (Tataskweyak) to apply aboriginal knowledge in determining whether the development proposed would be acceptable to Split Lake Cree (Tataskweyak). Any development must consider the reverence and appreciation we have for our traditional lands. Only if the project will do so, will Tataskweyak sign on to a development agreement that will see us being co-proponents in an environmental and regulatory climate that is appropriately and stringently regulated by both Provincial and Federal authorities in Canada. Already the influence of Split Lake Cree (Tataskweyak) has been powerful, because Manitoba Hydro has accepted that any project at Gull Rapids must be a low water one. Tataskweyak will not accept a high flood project that was original proposed by engineers. The Gull Rapids project will not impact other Cree Nations outside of the Split Lake Resource Management Area.

The use of aboriginal knowledge will be through processes developed by Split Lake Cree (Tataskweyak), known as the Overview of Land and Water, using a Mother Earth Ecosystem Model . This is believed to be a world first. The OWL process will be used first in determining whether Split Lake Cree (Tataskweyak) wish to sign a joint development agreement, and secondly, if we do, in providing information on aboriginal knowledge required for environmental and regulatory processes.

Split Lake Cree (Tataskweyak) will also have an opportunity to participate on an equity basis in the joint development of Gull Rapids and to enjoy the training, employment and business opportunities for our members.

Split Lake Cree (Tataskweyak) wish to have the opportunity to consider their involvement in such future development without interference by activists in Minnesota who would attempt to disrupt the flow of hydroelectricity from Manitoba Hydro to the United States. Without that flow of electricity, the prospects of export sales and future development would be dimmer, and opportunities for Split Lake Cree (Tataskweyak) may be lost.

The rivers and lakes have provided for Split Lake Cree (Tataskweyak) in the past throughout our existence since time immemorial. However, with increasing populations and other pressures on traditional resources (the anti-fur lobby has harmed First Nations), we must find other ways to utilize resources if we are to participate in a meaningful way in the 21st century economy. The use of the water power for the production of hydroelectricity would be another way of sharing the resources within our territory.

For a complete position paper on the Split Lake Cree (Tataskweyak), visit their website.

Learn more about other Manitoba First Nations' (tribes') and church groups' support for the positions taken by Split Lake Cree (Tataskweyak).