BHP mine infringes on traditional land: First Nation

The Kawacatoose First Nation claim they were not properly consulted regarding a BHP potash mine that will be dug near Jansen, Saskatchewan.

Raylene MedicineRope is a councillor with the Kawacatoose First Nation. She said the mine will be dug on traditional land and that the First Nation will lose hunting and gathering areas around the mine.

“It’s a great impact to our community,” said MedicineRope. “Roots, berries, other areas like that, that we do take advantage of, especially this time of year, that’s something we won’t have the benefit to enjoy any further, especially for our young people.”

She is concerned the environmental impact of the mine will be felt for generations.

MedicineRope said it's important that First Nation's views be taken into account when working on large projects like the mine.

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“We’d at least like to have the benefit of getting consultation on what’s happening within our areas,” said MedicineRope.

Calls have been put in to Government of Saskatchewan for a response, but as of 5 p.m. Friday messages have not been returned.

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