December 12, 2014 – “This settlement and apology represent the beginning of a new and positive relationship between Gull Bay First Nation and OPG, including the potential to move forward—as partners—in future developments,” said chief Wilfred King of Kiashke Zaaging Anishinaabek (KZA).

King was referring to a formal apology from Ontario Power Generation, which followed community ratification of a settlement agreement last month. The settlement and apology were for past grievances related to dams constructed by OPG’s predecessor companies on the Nipigon River between 1918 and 1950.

“We recognize that the people of Kiashke Zaaging Anishinaabek [a.k.a. Gull Bay First Nation] were disregarded by our company’s predecessors. We neglected to provide your community with the opportunity to participate in meaningful project discussions,” noted OPG in its official apology. “We are truly sorry for our failure to directly hear the concerns of your ancestors and for not resolving these past grievances sooner.”

OPG says this agreement with KZA is its 22nd First Nations settlement since 1992.