Consultation
The Consultation Unit is a relatively new unit, created in the summer of 2009. The Unit coordinates consultation activities within the community, as well as with federal/provincial governments, and industry. The Unit carries out activities to engage, inform, and promote dialogue within the community.
Functions & Activities
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Provides forums to gather input from the community on MBQ initiatives and issues.
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Relays information on MBQ initiatives and projects to the community.
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Generates policy and processes related to engagement & consultation initiatives, communications, and community engagement within MBQ.
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Assists MBQ departments, units, and programs with their community engagement activities.
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Coordinates engagement activities between MBQ, federal/provincial governments, and industry.
Services & Initiatives
MBQ Community Engagement
Ongoing input from the community is always welcome on how MBQ can consult with community members on MBQ projects, services, and initiatives. Let us know how you want to know what is happening with MBQ initiatives, and how you want to discuss your ideas/needs on MBQ initiatives.
Community Events
In addition to coordinating consultation activities, the Consultation unit can also organize community events. The Olympic Torch Relay was one such event. Excitement was at an all time high when the Olympic Torch passed through Tyendinaga December 15, 2009. Large crowds of approximately 700 community members cheered on torchbearers Raven Tabobandung and Camelia Maracle. Recognition was offered to the Creator during the Torch Acknowledgement ceremony by Chief R. Donald Maracle and Honorary Elder Firekeeper and veteran Elwood Brant. A special Recognition Assembly occurred later that morning to thank the torchbearers and Elder Firekeeper.
We extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who came to show their support, pride and unity at the events. It was a proud and positive day for Tyendinaga as we shared in the Olympic message of peace, brotherhood and friendship.
Ongoing Consultations
VIA Rail & CN Rail - Salmon River Bridge Expansion Project
CN Rail is proposing to expand the Salmon River bridge. Salmon River passes through Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory, and the proposed project itself is located in MBQ’s traditional territories, north of the Old Hwy-2 and Milltown Road intersection. CN’s proposed work includes an extension to a bridge and its 3 piers by 5.0m to accommodate a third track. A temporary structure will be installed and placed on concrete blocks for access across the river during construction. CN wants to begin construction in August 2010. CN is completing the work on VIA Rail’s behalf.
VIA Rail drafted an Environmental Assessment (EA) to assess the environmental impacts of this proposed project prior to construction. TMC received a copy of the draft EA from VIA Rail May 4, 2010. VIA’s EA identifies actions that can be taken to protect the environment during and following construction activities. VIA Rail's EA was finalized July 2010 and approved by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans.
MBQ is reviewing concerns with VIA's EA and proposed project with hired consultants. MBQ will continue to have meetings with VIA Rail and CN to discuss the proposed project, and the community will be kept up to date with the details of these discussions and the proposed project. Council is also reviewing the potential of entering into a "Community Outreach Agreement" with both VIA Rail and CN Rail.
MBQ is asking community members to provide their knowledge on the Salmon River to address environmental concerns that could result from the project.
MNR Information Sheet - Salmon River Temperature Classification & Presence of Salmon
VIA Rail's Environmental Assessment - Revised July 2010 (Hard copies available at the Administration office)
Summary Table - VIA's response to MBQ comments & concerns on the Project
September 14, 2010 - Community meeting on Salmon River Bridge extension addressing VIA & CN outreach agreements; presence of salmon in the river. 7pm Community Center.
August 5, 2010 - Community Meeting on VIA Rail (Draft) Community Outreach Agreement & comments on the Environmental Assessment
July 16, 2010 - Community Meeting to review and comment on VIA Rail's Environmental Assessment.
Tyendinaga Skate Park
Discussions with community youth Summer 2009 identified a strong interest in building a skate park. Currently, the youth skate on roads in the Territory, or travel to different cities to use skate parks. Since then, the youth have actively and enthusiastically participated in the extensive consultation efforts lead by MBQ, which have enabled the youth to have significant decision making abilities and input into the skate park’s design and development (3 design meetings in total!).
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Up to $488,750 has been designated for the new skate park to be built at the Sports Complex.
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Project costs will be supported in equal part funding from RINC, Ontario Recreation, and MBQ.
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May 8, 2010– Sod Turning for the skate park
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Construction company will be identified to build the park starting September 2010.
Once the skate park is complete, the youth will have a park they can take pride in, knowing they made significant contributions to the project.
Website Development
MBQ is excited to be working with a professional web designer to develop this brand new website for the community! Let’s hear from you! Is there any additional information or interactive features would you like to see on the website?
Contact:
Nation Building
1658 York Rd., Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory, ON
K0K 1X0
Phone: 613-967-3616
Fax: 613-967-6251
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