Enoch Cree Nation and EPCOR have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that formalizes their commitment to working together in the spirit of reconciliation and collaboration.
“Enoch Cree Nation is pleased to sign a MOU with EPCOR and we believe it is a step in the right direction to working together,” said Chief Morin of Enoch Cree Nation. “EPCOR’s work with water, energy, gas, and land naturally makes this an effective partnership for Enoch. A partnership that honours our stewardship of Treaty lands and resources.”
The MOU sets a strong foundation for both parties and creates a path forward on all projects, initiatives, and joint endeavours that cause ground disturbance at the E.L. Smith and Rossdale Water Treatment Plants in Edmonton. The MOU also provides a platform for meaningful, effective, and transparent communication on issues of mutual interest.
“EPCOR is pleased to be walking forward together with Enoch Cree Nation and advancing our formal relationship in the spirit of reconciliation,” said Stuart Lee, president and chief executive officer of EPCOR. “This agreement signifies mutual trust and respect for one another as well as a shared commitment to rediscovering history and re-connecting Enoch Cree Nation and its people with their historic lands.”
Working group discussions between Enoch Cree Nation’s consultation team and EPCOR have been taking place over the past 12 months, leading representatives from both parties to jointly recommend the formalization of the relationship with an MOU.
A signing ceremony took place on the former reserve lands of Enoch Cree Nation, at the E.L. Smith Water Treatment Plant on September 1, 2020 with physical distancing and public health measures in place. The celebration included a pipe ceremony, speeches, a gift presentation, and a drum song by local Enoch singers. Enoch Cree Nation Council members, knowledge holders, EPCOR senior leadership, and working group members were in attendance.
Moving forward, Enoch Cree Nation and EPCOR will continue working together to reconnect the Maskêkosihk peoples to their lands, through activities such as harvesting of plants for traditional medicinal purposes, and formalizing procedures and processes related to archeological work. Both parties will also work together to ensure the E.L. Smith and Rossdale Water Treatment Plants continue to be centres for the production of clean, safe water for future generations to benefit from and enjoy.
Enoch Cree Nation and EPCOR’s E.L. Smith and Rossdale Water Treatment Plants are on Treaty 6 territory.
