Published Sep. 30, 2024

In a significant step toward reconciliation, Strescon, a company involved in the Wolastoqey Nation’s Aboriginal title claim, has reached a deal with Indigenous leaders, leading to its release from the ongoing court case. Patricia Bernard, Chief of Madawaska First Nation, praised the company for negotiating a resolution instead of engaging in litigation, resulting in the creation of the Strescon Wolastoqey First Nations Industrial Trades Bursary Fund.

This fund will offer two annual $5,000 bursaries to students from the six Wolastoqey First Nations in New Brunswick, supporting their enrollment in industrial trades programs at New Brunswick Community College. The long-term commitment from Strescon totals $120,000 over 12 years, benefiting 24 students.

Unlike other companies in the claim, Strescon’s willingness to engage in reconciliation was recognized by Bernard, emphasizing that the initiative is about acknowledgement and educational opportunity, rather than financial compensation. The company’s CEO, John Irving, highlighted the importance of providing educational opportunities for Indigenous peoples in trades to address workforce shortages. This development contrasts with other companies, like J.D. Irving, which remains in the court case, with Indigenous leaders hopeful for more negotiations in the future.

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