Federal Environment Minister pays quiet visit to Webequie

Federal Environment Minister Peter Kent paid a quick visit to Webequie First Nation last week to discuss the Ring of Fire.
Webequie Chief Cornelius Wabasse said Kent stopped in to “see the community and the people of Webequie.”
“He was concerned about potential impacts from the (Ring of Fire) mines,” Wabasse said. “He made comments saying he is committed to working with First Nations, not just Webequie.”
Wabasse said the community was given short notice of Kent’s visit.
Environment Canada did not issue a media advisory or a news release about the trip.
Wabasse said he asked Elders in the community if it would be appropriate for the minister to visit, and was told to go ahead.
“The Elders say we should invite ministers to our community anytime, just so the government can see how we’re living and what the living conditions are like in Webequie,” Wabasse said. “Hopefully when they see first hand what its like, they’ll consider that in how they work with us.”