NCC President Russell Optimistic after First Meeting with Premier Dwight Ball

HAPPY VALLEY-GOOSE BAY, LABRADOR, January 12, 2016 – NunatuKavut Community Council (NCC) President Todd Russell today issued the following statement:

“Earlier today, myself and NCC Governing Council Vice President Jim Holwell had an opportunity to attend an inaugural meeting with Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Dwight Ball and his executive. We discussed a number of important items related to the NCC.

“We talked in length about our Land Claim and Premier Ball reiterated his commitment to supporting Land Claim negotiations with the federal government. NCC firmly believes that a Land Claim Agreement would have a tremendous impact on securing the overall well-being of our people and would have far-reaching benefits throughout the province.

“Another topic of discussion was the Lower Churchill projects and NCC’s environmental concerns around the Muskrat Falls project. I took this opportunity to again raise the negative effects that this project has on our communities and our traditional way of life. Although we are disappointed that this is not being dealt with as part of the recently announced comprehensive review of Muskrat Falls, I am hopeful that the concerns will be addressed through other avenues.

“Premier Ball also spoke of his priorities for Labrador as the Minister of Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs. I am pleased about the importance that the Premier places on this portfolio and has committed to work collaboratively with the NCC and other Aboriginal groups in Labrador.

“It was an extremely positive first meeting, signalling an important change in our relationship with the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador. I am optimistic that it is a strong first step in building a new relationship of respect, reconciliation and trust.”

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For regular updates, please visit our website at www.nunatukavut.ca. Please also join in the conversation at facebook.com/nunatuKavut and Twitter @nunatuKavut. For further information, please contact

Kelly Nippard, Director of Communications, NCC, 709-280-5965.

NT5