Developments on tobacco file

09/29/2011

The Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke (MCK) would like to inform the community with regard to developments in the Kahnawà:ke tobacco industry.

A meeting was held on 28, Seskehkó:wa/ September, with Grand Chief Michael Ahríhron Delisle, Jr. and Chiefs Kahsennenhawe Sky-Deer and Mike Bush in attendance, along with a group of community representatives consisting of John McComber, Brian Delormier, Robbie Dickson, Mitchell Horn, Peter Thomas and Lionel Deer, Jr.  At the conclusion of the meeting, there was consensus to begin the process of creating regulations for the industry, using an aggressive timeline.
 
As a result of the meeting, they are asking that others within the industry and community members, who may have ideas on resolving the industry’s problems, give their input before the deadline of 1, Tsothóhrha/December.

The community representatives have declared that they will act as an interim Regulatory Board, with plans to call for an elected Board in the near future.

“The meeting was very positive and all participants are willing to put in the time and energy to see that the industry is regulated so that it continues to sustain itself for the long run,” said Chief Sky-Deer, who will be formally assigned the tobacco portfolio at the Council Meeting of Monday, 3 Kenténha/October.  “Another primary objective is that the community must see the benefits of this lucrative industry, given that it exists because of our collective rights”

The MCK has, for years, maintained official support for the industry but has steadfastly voiced its concern that lack of regulation has made it difficult, if not impossible, to defend against outside jurisdictions. 

Those who wish to give their input are asked to contact Trina C. Diabo at the MCK (450-632-7500 extension 2278).