Manitoba First Nation blocks workers from clear-cutting for Bipole III

WINNIPEG – A Manitoba First Nation is blocking workers from clear-cutting trees for the Bipole III project.

Bipole III is a new high voltage transmission project with Manitoba Hydro aimed at improving system reliability, anticipated to be in service by 2018.

The Sapotaweyak Cree Nation sent out a statement Saturday saying they are standing up for their rights and protecting their ancestral lands and traditional territory. They don’t want any work to be done until the provincial government speaks with them.

The First Nation applied for an injunction against Manitoba Hydro’s clear-cutting in the area. The application was heard on Jan.13 and dismissed on Jan.14.