The government of Manitoba has stated that it will not provide support for a search of a landfill near Winnipeg, where the remains of two murdered Indigenous women are believed to be located.
In a statement issued by Premier Heather Stefanson, the province expressed concerns about the health and safety risks associated with conducting the search at Prairie Green Landfill without a guarantee. The complex search process outlined in the report raised long-term health and safety concerns that cannot be ignored, according to the statement.
While the province declined to support the search, it did indicate its willingness to support a memorial in the area. The government hopes that other levels of government and Indigenous leaders will also lend their support to the memorial.
The decision comes after a meeting between Premier Stefanson, Indigenous leaders, and family members of the victims. The families have been advocating for a search of the landfill following the discovery of partial remains of another victim, Rebecca Contois, at Winnipeg’s Brady Landfill last year.
Family members expressed their frustration and disappointment with the government’s decision. Melissa Robinson, cousin of one of the victims, Morgan Harris, voiced her disappointment and stated that she had to leave the meeting due to her strong emotions.
Jeremy Skibicki has been charged with first-degree murder in connection with the deaths of Rebecca Contois, Morgan Harris, Marcedes Myran, and an unidentified Indigenous woman referred to as Mashkode Bizhiki’ikwe, or Buffalo Woman.
In May, an Indigenous-led feasibility study highlighted the potential risks and estimated that the search could take up to three years and cost approximately $184 million. The study emphasized the importance of the search for the families but also acknowledged the risks associated with exposure to toxic chemicals.
The federal government is currently reviewing the feasibility study. The province stated that it is awaiting the federal government’s review before taking further action. Indigenous leaders expressed their disappointment with the province’s response and called for concrete action to address the issue.
Family members remain determined to continue their efforts and are committed to bringing their loved ones home. They emphasized the need for a search to be conducted and expressed their ongoing dedication to the cause.
CTV News reached out to the federal government for comment, and a statement from the office of the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations reiterated that the study is being reviewed diligently, with further comments to be provided upon completion of the review.