Derek Neary
Northern News Services

Fort Liard (Aug 15/05) - The federal government has sided with Harry Deneron in a battle over political leadership in Fort Liard.

The Department of Indian Affairs and Northern Development formally recognized Deneron as chief in a letter dated Aug. 4.

"Accordingly we will conduct our business as appropriate through yourself and your Council," states the letter signed by Brian Herbert, acting director of Indian and Inuit Services.

Deneron won the July 14 band election with 136 votes compared to 82 for incumbent Floyd Bertrand, his closest challenger.

Bertrand contested the outcome, claiming that people were coerced into voting for Deneron.

In an interview, Herbert said the government won't be involved in the appeal process.

Herb Norwegian, Grand Chief of the Dehcho First Nations, said "the sooner that they can bring some resolution to that, it will be better for all the people in Liard."

Deneron had the locks changed at the band office and said he hopes that the government's approval will put an end to the confusion.

Floyd Bertrand did not return phone calls from News/North.

Deneron said that he and his council can improve on maximizing economic benefits for the First Nation.

The Acho Dene may not have realized all the profit it could have during his last 10 years as chief, he admitted, but revenue from oil and gas amounted to much more than the Dehcho First Nations collected in core funding, he contended.

He also said he and his council will be fully accountable in regards to the First Nation's finances.

Band members will be informed of the Acho Dene's investments, Deneron said.

They will be invited to decide how revenue should be spent or whether some of it should be saved in a trust account.