First Nations groups seek 'significant benefit' from LeBreton redevelopment
Algonquin chief looking for more than 'street signs and plaques'
Aboriginal groups are watching the redevelopment of LeBretonFlats closely, and looking to form lasting partnerships with the proponents behind the winning proposal.
The land sitson traditional Algonquin territory, and local Indigenous leaderssay they're eager to find out how theproject will impacttheir communities.
We're looking for and seeking some significant benefit.-KirbyWhiteduck,chief of the Algonquins ofPikwakanaganFirst Nation
KirbyWhiteduck,chief of the Algonquins ofPikwakanaganFirst Nation, said he wants his people to benefit from theredevelopment in a meaningful way.
"Not just street signs and some plaques or something ... We're looking for and seeking some significant benefit," Whiteduck said.
Whiteduck said he wants along-term strategy that goes beyondemployment and training, lastinguntil construction is done.
TheSenators-backed RendezVousLeBretonGroupwon the bid overDevcore CanderelDLS Groupto redevelop LeBreton Flats on Thursday. The projectisexpected to cost several billion dollarsandwill seetheOttawa Senators hockey franchise move to a new downtown arena.
Economic development
The National Capital Commission held twoinformation sessionswith members of the region'sAlgonquin communities in Januaryand February.
In an emailto CBC News, NCC spokesmanMarioTremblaydescribed the meetings as"positive," and saidformal consultations with Algonquin leaders will take placein the coming months.