Nelson Sergerie, LJI

GASPÉ – The Quebec government plans on letting the federal government know they are in favour of the Micmac Nation of Gespeg creating an economic reserve.

The Secretariat for Aboriginal Affairs has the file on its desk. “We’re working on it. The Quebec government cannot do this alone. We have to work with the federal government. When reserve lands are added, it has to be done with the federal government. For our part, we are here, we are partners with Gespeg. We hope that things will move forward. How quickly? I can’t tell you that today. We are working with Ottawa. We are in favour of it,” said Ian Lafrenière, the Minister responsible for Relations with First Nations, during his recent visit to Gespeg.

Gespeg’s request targets three properties in the area surrounding the Nation’s administrative centre. This initiative will give Gespeg access to additional funding programs to support its economic and social development, as well as programs supporting community infrastructure.

The Town of Gaspé has already given its support, continuing the collaboration established in 2017 between the municipal council and the Gespeg council.

Gespeg is focusing on socio-economic development, particularly the construction of social infrastructure and diversifying economic development. The creation of this economic reserve would provide access to 26 assistance programs, whereas Gespeg currently only receives assistance from five programs.

Recognized since 1972, the Micmac Nation of Gespeg had its application rejected in the mid-1970s. After efforts in the 1990s, the process resumed in 2020. A new application was filed in 2024.

Gespeg Chief Céline Cassivi declined to comment on the issue when she was contacted by SPEC.