INAC Responds to Planned Toll

The federal government is responding to Couchiching First Nations plans to set up a toll booth later this month.

In an e-mail to B-93, Michelle Yao, a spokesperson for Indian Affairs Minister Chuck Strahl, says the government is committed to working with the band and the province in resolving the issues cited as reasons for the toll.

But Yao says an open dialogue is much more constructive and effective in dealing with the band's concerns.

Last night, band council held a community meeting to update residents on their plans for the May 21st toll.

Deer Proposals Put Forward

The town of Fort Frances has filed its application for federal funding to help chase deer away from the airport.

The money would be for a 5,800 metre long fence, costing about $300-thousand.

The town is also seeking approval from the Ministry of Natural Resources on plans to deal with deer if funding doesn't come through.

It includes installing motion detection noise equipment along main deer trails near the airport and allowing a bow hunt cull if and when deer become a major concern to aircraft.

Rafferty Loses Support

John Rafferty's private members bill to provide protection to workers and their pensions when companies restructure or enter bankruptcy proceedings appears to have hit a snag.

After last week receiving hints that all parties would support it going to the committee level, the M-P for Thunder Bay-Rainy River says it now appears Conservatives are planning to put a stop to the bill.

"I guess what saddens me the most is to think that Conservatives are listen more to bank lobbyists than to ordinary Canadians," says Rafferty.

Rafferty is suggesting residents call Conservative M-P's or the Prime Minister to voice their displeasure.

Gun Registry Support

Survivors of the Montreal massacre 21 years ago head to Ottawa today in hopes of saving the long-gun registry.

Among those who will be the nation's capital today is Suzanne Laplante Edward, whose daughter, Anne-Marie, was one of 14 women murdered by a crazed gunman at the Ecole Polytechnique in 1989.

Edward is pressing for the defeat of a private member's bill that calls for the long-gun registry to be scrapped.

The bill, tabled by Tory M-P Candice Hoeppner, has received second reading in the Commons, where it was supported by eight Liberals and a-third of the N-D-P caucus.

Edward wants N-D-P Leader Jack Layton to force his MPs to vote against the bill on third reading.

Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP John Rafferty is among those who supports the bills.

Province to Help C.A.S.

Premier Dalton McGuinty is making overtures to Children's Aid Societies who have gone to court for more money.

McGuinty says he wants to work with the agencies to fix their funding problems.

The premier acknowledges there's a "real issue'' when it comes to funding the agencies, but questions why these challenges persist despite increased funding and a drop in the number of children in care.

Roller Derby Fundraiser

Efforts to develop a women's roller derby team in Fort Frances are now turning to a place to play.

About thirty women have signed up to be a part of the new team and are holding practices every Wednesday at 52 Canadians Rink.

But organizer Crystal Caul says they would like a more permanent home.

"Ultimately we like to purchase our own space," says Caul, "as derby has no set schedule. There is no season. We can play 12 months of the year. Right now we would like to be able to afford to lease space."

The group is about to embark on a fundraising campaign to raise the necessary funds.