As MLA for Stikine, it is my responsibility to listen to the views of the people I represent.  I visited the checkpoint on the invitation of my constituents and hereditary chiefs to hear their concerns and observe their protocols.  This visit was an acknowledgement of their authority as confirmed in the historic Delgamuukw -Gisdaywa decision.

At the same time I am aware that the laws of Canada must be upheld and court injunctions must be followed. This illustrates how these two systems of law are colliding and underlines the importance of the separate reconciliation process our government has undertaken with the Office of the Wet’suweten.

My commitment to a process of reconciliation remains firm and my first objective in the current legal situation is to ensure the safety of all.