MMS visit to the Magdalen Islands

Earlier in October, members from the Consultation & Accommodation (C&A), and Ango’tmeq Nm’tginen (A.N) Teams had the opportunity to visit the Magdalen Islands to document and assess current and past projects in the region. The visit was made possible with the assistance of participatory consultation funding, on-site support & accommodations from regional liaisons / contacts from the Department of Fisheries & Oceans (DFO).

Launched in 2019, the Indigenous Habitat Participation Program provides support for Indigenous communities & organizations to be involved in the conservation of fish and fish habitats and protection under the Fisheries Act or Species at Risk Act.

With the Magdalen Islands included in the 2005 Statement of Claim, this marked a significant milestone for MMS as its first visit to this area of the territory. With the role of the A.N Team being to ensure safe and sustainable development in Gespe’gewa’gi. This stopover included visual inspections, discussions, photo / video documentation to evaluate and observe project progress, environmental impacts on wildlife / vegetation / water, erosion control measures, dredging activities, and future project planning.

During their stay, the team over the course of two days visited 10 locations on the island:

Millerand (L’Anse à la Cabane), SS Corfu Shipwreck (Étang du Nord), Étang du Nord Harbour, Cap-aux-meules, Pointe Basse, Pointe-aux-Loups, Grant-Entrée, Old Harry, and Grosse-Île Wharf.

While there were numerous stops over the two days, the team had an invaluable experience being able to visit a remote area in our Gespe’gewa’gi territory. On reflection, the team understood why our ancestors frequented the islands. The land, water and all the life between held a story and significance to our people.