The chiefs of the Bearspaw, Chiniki, Goodstoney and Tsuut'ina Nations have written an open letter to Alberta's premier, Danielle Smith, saying this month's provincial referendum caused real and lasting division, CTV News reports.
The chiefs welcomed the result on remaining in Canada, which about three-quarters of voters backed in the 19 October vote, but said the process damaged trust, strained relationships and created uncertainty for communities including their own. They argued that treaty rights and the relationship with the Crown could never be renegotiated through a provincial vote.
The letter asks for talks with the premier and ministers on honouring treaty obligations and calls on the government to make sure Alberta does not again pursue a course that puts treaty rights at risk. Official results are due on 29 October.
Source: CTV News
