2006-06-20
Author: Rae Hathaway
Five communities have joined together to form the Dakota Nations of Manitoba. They issued a proclamation yesterday at Dakota Tipi First Nation to protect their land and title rights in the southwest part of the province. 

The Dakotas have no treaty, and maintain they still hold rights to resources like oil. They're after a compensation package from the federal and provincial governments as their share. 

Dakota Tipi Chief Cornell Pashe is happy they've reached this point, adding unity is important in reaching an agreement. He notes all five communities face similar problems.

Dakota Plains Chief Orville Smoke agrees, and expects efforts toward a settlement will continue.

Chief Ken Chalmers of Birdtail Sioux contends they're entitled to compensation dating back to the 19th century.

The Dakota Nations are prepared for court action, but are confident a negotiated settlement can be reached.