#protectpeel
The beauty of unspoilt wilderness, the purity of the water, the livelihoods of First Nations and our future on this planet are at stake.
In 2011, the recommended plan for the use of the region around the Peel River Watershed was published. It had been developed over several years by the Government of the Yukon Territory and representatives of the First Nations. It called for the protection of 80 per cent of this valuable wilderness area. Nevertheless, in 2014, the government simply ignored this plan and implemented its own, which would have left only 29 per cent of the area untouched!
Opponents therefore had no choice but to take the matter to court. Last night, we were able to attend the presentation of the latest rulings in the Peel River Watershed case. The coalition, comprising three Indigenous tribes and two environmental organisations (including CPAWS, with whom we will also be collaborating), announced and explained its decision to take the fate of the Peel River Watershed to the Supreme Court of Canada.
It was very interesting and helpful to gain such an in-depth insight into the case. The people involved are all incredibly competent, ambitious and passionate about the cause. And, of course, it was a wonderful feeling to be part of this movement to protect nature of unimaginable beauty!
Further information can be found in this newspaper article (unfortunately only available in English): Application for Leave to Appeal to be Filed with the Supreme Court of Canada