Chief Mike Sack of the Sipekne’katik First Nation.
The United Nations is asking Canada to provide information about the fishing dispute which took place between indigenous and commercial fishers in Nova Scotia last year.
The UN’s Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is looking into alleged acts of racism and the governments response. They also want to know how Canada is protecting rights, and how to ease tensions.
Sipekne’katik first nation Chief Mike Sack is encouraged by the UN getting involved.
“Very grateful to hear back that they’re inquiring on it and I’m optimistic that hopefully something comes out of it,” said Sack. “All we want to do is prevent any future violence that I think think everyone is wanting to do or should want to do.”
Sack wants the investigation to help ease tensions and allow them to rebuild relationships with the locals in the area.
“I just hope that it levels the playing field and Canada is held accountable for the lack of actions that they had,” said Sack. “I think that 90% of what happened last fall could have been prevented. It can’t keep happening. My biggest fear is that my kids end up fighting this battle.”
The UN’s Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination’s letter was sent at the end of April. The committee wishes to continue to engage in a constructive dialogue with the Government of Canada about the allegations.
