Mohawk Council of Akwesasne
Daily Briefing
June 8, 2009
10am
At 7am on Saturday, June 6th, as a result of further negotiations between Akwesasne leaders and the Cornwall City Police, the North Span of the Three Nations Bridge Crossing was reopened for additional traffic. The negotiated arrangement was in response to the disruption that the bridge closure has caused to Akwesasne and surrounding communities. Akwesasne leaders will continue its efforts to reopen the bridge crossing to all traffic.
The North Span was reopened on Saturday for:
- All Kawehnoke Business Owners who have non native employees residing in Cornwall will be allowed to cross the North Span Bridge, to report to their place of employment on Cornwall Island.
- Any and all external service providers/contractors/businesses, which are providing a service or delivering/installing a product to residents of Cornwall Island, will be allowed to cross the North Span Bridge upon proof of destination on Cornwall Island
- Those who utilize any and all MCA facilities will be permitted to cross the North Span Bridge.
The people of Akwesasne have received reports that over the weekend a blockade was setup on the Skyway Bridge east of Toronto, between Belleville and Kingston. It is reported that the bridge on County Road 49 off Highway 401 has been occupied and will stay there until the federal government expands talks about arming border guards at the Port of Entry on Kawehnoke.
The Mohawks of Akwesasne state, once again, that it never was nor is it, our people’s desire to act in a manner that would negatively impact our efforts to seek a diplomatic resolution. Since the demonstration began on May 1st, the people of Akwesasne have remained vigil and peaceful. Support has been received and continues to be received in support of peaceful efforts.
Throughout Akwesasne, as well in other First Nations territories, peace fires have been ongoing. The people of Akwesasne encourage supporters to do the same, as well as to urge federal officials to meet with Akwesasne leaders.
