Watson Lake

File containing one cross reference sheet regarding Watson Lake Clearing camps.

File contains an individual presentation by Ann Bayne that first provides a history of the Kaska First Nations and the Liard Indian Band. Bayne describes her Band's struggle with a referendum addressing a hereditary system or elected system in determining the position of Chief. She believes that residents should have a choice in determining their leadership. Bayne also discusses abolishing the Indian Act, the need for personal development programs and calls for more treatment centres for substance abuse. Following the presentation is a discussion with Commissioner Allan Blakeney.

File contains an individual presentation by George Smith, via translator, that focuses on Aboriginal self-government from the perspective of elders. Smith states that elders were consulted in all facets of life pre-contact but with the Canadian government's policies over the years, elder input and influence have been irrelevant. He calls for the government to consult with elders during self-government negotiations. Smith also briefly discusses band relocation, natural resources, and the effects of residential schools. Following the presentation is a discussion with Commissioner Allan Blakeney.

File contains opening remarks by Allan Blakeney and Viola Robinson, Commissioners, who speak about the purpose and objectives of the Commission. George Miller, representative of the Kaska Tribal Council and Barry Ravenhill, Mayor of Watson Lake are introduced.

File contains a presentation by Barry Ravenhill, Mayor of Watson Lake relating to Aboriginal self-government as it affects municipalities and local bands. He also briefly discusses housing construction on First Nations without proper building standards. Following the presentation is a discussion with Commissioner Allan Blakeney.

File contains a presentation by Chief Hammond Dick relating to land claims and self-government for the Kaska Nation. He states that the Kaskas would agree only to an offer that provides exclusive control over lands selected for use by their people. The Kaskas also want to play a significant role in the management of renewable and non-renewable resources on their traditional lands. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Debbie Groat that focuses on the lack of Aboriginal cultural content, a drop-out rate of students and the lack of parental support as roadblocks to improving the educational system for Aboriginal youth. Groat states that the problems continue when students graduate from high school and seek post-secondary education. Following the presentation is a discussion with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Eileen Van Bibber that offers six proposals relating to the Liard First Nation and its residents. They include construction of a building for the creation and sale of crafts, training of band members for equipment operation in the Liard area, and construction of a community hall. Van Bibber calls for funding to achieve these goals. Following the presentation is a lengthy discussion with Commissioners Allan Blakeney and Viola Robinson.

File contains a presentation by Ron Blinn that focuses on social issues on First Nations such as inadequate housing and water quality, the high cost of food, fire protection, health care, and youth crime and suicide. He invites the Commissioners to tour the Liard River First Nation to experience the way its residents live. Following the presentation is a discussion with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Steven Jakesta that discusses the Cassiar mine closure scheduled for late 1992. There is no other economic base for the area and Jakesta foresees the deterioration of existing infrastructure in Good Hope Lake once the mine closes. He calls for funding to assist the town in maintaining services and programs. Following the presentation is a brief discussion with Commissioner Allan Blakeney and Blakeney's closing remarks.