I am deeply concerned about what occurred at the Stirling South Development site near Caledonia on September 13, 2007. I wish Mr. Gualtieri a full and speedy recovery from the injuries that he suffered as a result of a confrontation with Six Nations individuals. This incident is indeed regrettable and unfortunate. As the Six Nations Hodiyenehso (Confederacy Council) have indicated, the injuries to Mr. Gualtieri were the result of the actions of a few individuals, which are not condoned or supported by the Confederacy.

I do not believe that violence will enable First Nations people to resolve their longstanding grievances any more expediently or effectively than through the pursuit of peaceful and reasonable measures.

I remain fully supportive of the peaceful actions of the Haudenosaunee Six Nations in their efforts to exercise their rights and to protect their traditional territory.

The issue of unresolved land rights and the lawful obligations of the Government of Canada is a complex one. It cannot be adequately explained in a thirty-second sound bite or one editorial. Over the years First Nation land has been stolen through unfulfilled Treaty promises, outright theft and underhanded dealings. The frustration that has accumulated as a result of years upon years of inaction and neglect by the Government of Canada in resolving these legitimate claims runs very deep.

Consider that First Nations submit a claim to Government, which drags on for years with no resolution, and then have to watch as their land continues to be sold off and developed while the claim remains unresolved. I cannot emphasize enough that this is the source of considerable frustration with First Nation communities. This is wrong and must be given immediate attention.