Shelter closed Nanaimo SPCA still grappling with ringworm outbreak. PAGE 7 Strategic plan Islands find ways to work together on complex issues. PAGE 24 For her fans Michelle Wright tours to celebrate hall of fame induction. PAGE 3
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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2012
VOL. 24, NO. 70
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Snuneymuxw propose cultural centre for Newcastle Island park Supporters welcome proposal, consultation BY TOBY GORMAN THE NEWS BULLETIN
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Snuneymuxw First Nation says that within six months it will develop a comprehensive plan to create an interpretive and cultural centre on Newcastle Island. Chief Douglas White III, who has been a longtime supporter of a First Nation cultural centre on the mostly undeveloped island, added that Snuneymuxw is also poised to examine a “full range of alternatives” for facilitating increased access to Newcastle. “Newcastle Island is one of our traditional village sites, and a place of great spiritual and cultural significance for the Snuneymuxw people,” said White, in a media release. “By embarking on this planning, Snuneymuxw is preparing for the next phase of the future of the Island, one which will see expanded opportunities for all people to learn about Snuneymuxw culture and way of life, and to enjoy the beauty of the island.” Newcastle Island became a provincial marine park in 1961 and is currently managed by Snuneymuxw in partnership with the City of Nanaimo. In early Nanaimo history, the 336-hectare park was home to a
Out with the old In with the Newcastle
saltery, sandstone quarry, coal mine and shipyard. Bill Merilees, spokesman for the Newcastle Island Society, a volunteer group that oversees the park’s operations, said while the society was aware that a cultural centre was on the radar, the announcement was not anticipated. “This came as a complete surprise to everybody,” said Merilees, noting that it has been well over a year since there were any formal discussions regarding the park’s operations. “We have tried to work with them but we just get stalled and put off and put off and then all of a sudden this thing pops out of the woodwork. Our position is we’re happy that they’re interested in doing something there but for pete’s sake, why don’t they just talk to us so we can all work together?” Merilees said that a management plan introduced in 1995 did identify a cultural centre, but that it was understood that the centre would be part of the existing pavilion. White said that as part of the planning process Snuneymuxw will connect with interested local stakeholders, as well as the provincial government, to seek views and input. ◆ See ‘CULTURAL’ /4