Protester Maynard George says the action is connected to a First Nations claim to the land. CBC News · Posted: Mar 19, 2018 5:11 PM ET | Last Updated: March 19.
Indigenous protesters are again blocking the entrance to the Pinery Provincial Park, an action they say stems from a longstanding dispute over First Nations claims to the park on the shores of Lake Huron.
Maynard George of Kettle and Stony Point First Nation told CBC news that he and about four other protesters have pulled into the park’s front entrance in a trailer, preventing visitors from entering the park.
He said Pinery staff told people using the park to leave. As of Monday evening, about 10 trailers have already left, said George.
“We’ve moved in, we’ve taken up our residency here,” said George. “And we’ve shut down the park permanently. We’re in a position where we have to do something to resolve the claim.”
George was involved in a similar action that ended in November with the park re-opening.
He said the protesters’ claim to the land stretches back to the War of 1812.
Ministry response
George said police were present in the park on Monday, but that they are only there to maintain order. He said there have been no arrests or confrontations.
In a statement to CBC News, a spokersperson for the Ministry of Natural Resources said, “Ontario Parks is working toward a resolution to this situation – we are engaging with the individuals, their counsel and police to better understand their claims.”
George said he intends to stay at the park. It’s unclear for how long.
So…what does this mean to those of use who have passes and take hikes in the park?
Great Question!
I read that the park was still open
We were at the Pinery today and the protesters have moved to the Chalet area. We had no problem at all.