Canada's federal government paid nearly $2 million to demolish homes following a 2011 flood on Manitoba Lake St. Martin First Nation Reserve, and natives were told their houses and the belongings inside were condemned as too damaged for them to return to and use.
CTV News recently learned that as many as 40 of these homes have been moved from their foundations and sold for an average of $20,000 each. Some of the homes still contained their original belongings, while other belongings have been found for sale in thrift and antique shops. Native man Noel Beardy was one who lost his home and belongings in the flood, only to find his antique cabinet for sale in a Value Village.
Monetary reimbursement cannot replace the sentimental value of homes and belongings that are shared with family and friends and perhaps passed down through the generations. Every effort should have been made to salvage these properties and return everything possible to the original owners. Please sign the petition to convince Ottawa's government to investigate the situation and punish all responsible parties for theft and/or fraud.
As you know, Canada's federal government paid nearly $2 million to demolish homes following a 2011 flood on Manitoba Lake St. Martin First Nation Reserve, and natives were told their houses and the belongings inside were condemned as too damaged for them to return to and use.
CTV News recently learned that as many as 40 of these homes have been moved from their foundations and sold for an average of $20,000 each. Some of the homes still contained their original belongings, while other belongings have been found for sale in thrift and antique shops. Native man Noel Beardy was one who lost his home and belongings in the flood, only to find his antique cabinet for sale in a Value Village. We believe that this development is heartbreaking and unacceptable.
Monetary reimbursement cannot replace the sentimental value of homes and belongings that are shared with family and friends and perhaps passed down through the generations. Every effort should have been made to salvage these properties and return everything possible to the original owners. We respectfully urge you to investigate the situation and punish all responsible parties for theft and/or fraud. Thank you for taking the time to read and consider our petition.
