Moose Lake has been a traditional and cultural centre for local people for centuries. (Photo: Fort McKay First Nation)

By rdnewsNOW staff

over 20 years in the making

Province, Fort McKay to meet in three months on fate of Moose Lake protected area

Jan 31, 2020 | 3:58 PM

EDMONTON – The Alberta government and the Fort McKay First Nation have agreed to meet again in three months to decide the fate of one of the last areas in the band’s territory that hasn’t been impacted by oilsands development.

In 2018, the band thought it had a deal putting a 10-kilometre buffer around Moose Lake.

But the deal wasn’t ratified and Alberta’s energy regulator later approved an oilsands mine that would come within two kilometres of the shore.

The First Nation is fighting that approval in the Alberta Court of Appeal and a judgment is expected soon.

Band officials say the First Nation is prepared to allow some development within the buffer but it wants the mine’s processing facility located further away.

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Fort McKay Grand Chef Mel Grandjamb says he’s happy with the outcome of Friday’s meeting.

“After 20 years of negotiations, after 20 years in which previous governments with good intentions have fallen short, Fort McKay First Nation can see the finish line for Moose Lake,” he says. “This roadmap and commitment to finalizing Moose Lake show that responsible resource development can be a tool for reconciliation.”

“Like Fort McKay First Nation, we also want a responsible approach to development in the area. Government continues to work with the community on a path forward that respects Indigenous People’s rights while supporting critical economic opportunities for the area First Nations and the province,” says Jason Nixon, Minister of Environment and Parks.

(With file from The Canadian Press, media releases)