Water access issue resolved for LNID

By Al Beeber - Lethbridge Herald on April 30, 2022.

LETHBRIDGE HERALDabeeber@lethbridgeherald.com

The Piikani Nation says a dispute over the Oldman River project has been settled.
This means Lethbridge Northern Irrigation District members will have access to water for this year’s irrigation season.
A statement from Chief Stan Grier says “I am pleased to report that an agreement has been reached between Piikani Nation and the Government of Alberta regarding the Oldman River Project.”
The Piikani Nation says terms won’t be disclosed but council is satisfied with the agreement.
“We are optimistic that this agreement will assist with advancing reconciliation and foster a closer government-to-government relationship to advance our shared interests.
“Alberta has agreed to meet with us on a regular basis to address issues as they relate to the Lethbridge Northern Headworks,” said the statement.
The province’s Environment and Parks department has not responded to a request for comment on the blockade.
Last week, press secretary Paul Hamnett said the province was working to resolve the issue “as quickly as possible.”
HIs statement added “Alberta’s government has had a Settlement Agreement with Piikani First Nation and the Government of Canada since 2002 to permit Alberta access to the headworks to supply water to the Irrigation District. Any access to Reserve land that occurred by government officials were for repairs and safety reasons as legally defined by conditions of the Agreement and accompanying access permits.”

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