Mtis leader threatens more legal action over Bipole III

The Manitoba Mtis Federation is using its recent Supreme Court victory to bolster its opposition to a proposed Manitoba Hydro project.

The federations president, David Chartrand, said he wants a commission to stopManitoba Hydros planned power transmission line, Bipole III, from being constructed.

Chartrand was scheduled to testify Monday before the Clean Environment Commission that is currently reviewing the route chosen for the project.

The MMF, which has hunting rights in areas where the high-voltage transmission could end up, says the route will negatively impact Mtis harvesting.

The group says they have not been properly consulted on the route, and the environmental assessment hasnt taken into account Mtis rights.

Chartrand saidthe MMFs recent Supreme Court land rights victory over the federal governmentpointed to the importance of the government and crown corporations respecting Mtis rights.

In a release, he said, "Its now time for the Crown to act honourably when it comes to Bipole III."

The MMF said the environmental costs of the route are unacceptable to the Mtis.

Chartrand said the MMF would pursue legal action to stop Bipole III if the route is not changed.