MEDIA RELEASE

For immediate release

November 16, 2010

Ktunaxa historic visit to Legislature puts pressure on government
to oppose resort development

VICTORIA – Monday’s historic visit to the Legislature by members of the Ktunaxa Nation declaring their interest in Qat’muk, the Toby/Jumbo watershed, will make it very difficult for the government to proceed with the approval of Jumbo Glacier Resort, says Columbia River – Revelstoke MLA Norm Macdonald.

Ktunaxa Nation Council Chair Kathryn Teneese led a large delegation of elders and band members in a moving and impressive ceremony that involved the presentation to a representative of the provincial government of a declaration stating the historical and spiritual importance of Qat’muk to the Ktunaxa people.

“The declaration states that Ktunaxa will not accept a resort development in the Jumbo Valley,” said Macdonald.  “Chief Teneese could not have been any clearer in stating the Ktunaxa’s opposition.

“I can’t imagine that the government can decide to go ahead with approving the resort under these circumstances.  The opposition to the proposed resort is just too strong.”