The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne Issues
Update on CBSA Arming
June 1, 2009
Shortly before midnight, The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne reported that CBSA Officers at the Cornwall Port of Entry voluntarily decided to leave the Akwesasne Mohawk Territory. In response to them leaving the Canada Custom Compound, policy was activated that resulted in the closure of the Three Nations Bridge Crossing. In response, the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne and Emergency Measures representatives have been meeting and making arrangement for Kawehnoke residents with medical needs and other items. An Emergency Operations Center has been established at the CIA #3 Building on Kawehnoke to help coordinate efforts and respond to needs of community members.
Since first being notified of the federal government’s intention to begin arming the CBSA Officers at the Cornwall Port of Entry, the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne has been attempting to have meaningful dialogue and consultation on its impact on the Mohawk community of Akwesasne. That effort continues.
Following repeated requests to the Minister of Public Safety, the Prime Minister, and other federal officials, a Unity Rally was established next to the Canada Customs Building on May 1st to peacefully and publically voice our community’s opposition to the arming initiative. It has been and continues to be our community’s desire to seek a peaceful resolution to our community’s concerns that do not involve the disruption of traffic or the closing of the Three Nations Bridge Crossing. The closures of the bridges during the past few days have been the result of actions initiated by CBSA Officers.
Last night, prior to a community meeting, Grand Chief Tim Thompson was presented that a letter from Public Safety Minister Peter Van Loan. The letter indicated the national implementation was the fulfillment of campaign promises that were made. It also indicated that the decision to implement the arming initiative is being left to CBSA. As a result, we want to express our disappointed and frustration due to the lack of cooperation received from federal officials.
Regardless, we have and will continue to pursue peaceful means to address our community’s concerns.
The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne remains available to have meaningful dialogue and consultation on the arming implementation in Akwesasne Mohawk Territory.