Derek Neary
Northern News Services

Fort Simpson (Sep 25/02) - The Liidlii Kue First Nation has announced that it is opening the door to industry.

The band council is emphasizing that development must occur on its terms and that industrial projects can proceed within the framework of the Deh Cho Process and existing interim self-government agreements.

"There are spin-off opportunities that we should be really looking at now instead of waiting for the pipeline ... we're going to get a foot in the door," Chief Rita Cli said in an interview last week.

"We keep talking about impact benefits agreements. The only way you can get that is if you sit down and talk."

"That's when you zoom in on training and the education component."

Specific business opportunities that the LKFN may pursue include building and selling a natural gas compressor station, logging, developing gravel pits and improving infrastructure within the community, Cli noted.

The band also needs to create a database of its workforce and ensure prospective employees are safety certified, she said.

With a growing demand for traditional knowledge, the LKFN is going to charge companies for its expertise of the land.

The profits will be placed in a fund for the elders, according to Cli.

Fort Simpson could also rally communities along the Mackenzie Valley to promote a Mackenzie highway extension, she added.

Still support Deh Cho Process

A band-issued press release states that the LKFN can support a Mackenzie Valley gas pipeline while continuing to negotiate royalties and resource management arrangements.

"(The) LKFN position does not undermine the Deh Cho Process..." the press release reads.

Michael Nadli, grand chief of the Deh Cho First Nations, would not comment on the LKFN's decision.

Chris Reid, chief negotiator for the DCFN, said the band's announcement shouldn't compromise the Deh Cho's position at the negotiating table.

"The major (negotiating) concerns are oil and gas and the pipeline. At this point the Deh Cho is still united that a full leadership resolution would be required to support either of those things," Reid said.

With a goal of achieving self-sufficiency, the LKFN is developing an economic development policy and an integrated resource management plan, complementary documents to establish guidelines and protocols for economic activity on LKFN traditional lands.

"Industry or anybody that wants anything to do with Simpson, this (band office) is the one area they should go. The number one stop is here," Cli said.

"We, in turn, can advise them. Gone are the days when (industry) walks all over us. They have to consult us ... Whatever we do, it has to be community driven."