Ontario Power Generation (OPG) said all cultural protocols were followed after remains relating to a First Nation burial site were found at its new parking lot adjacent to its Oshawa headquarters.
However, chiefs of Alderville First Nation, the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation, Hiawatha First Nation and Curve Lake First Nation, said the OPG and its contractor did not follow the proper Heritage Act procedures (see below).
“On July 3rd, a bone fragment was discovered during archeological work at OPG’s parking lot extension project, adjacent to our new corporate headquarters in Oshawa,” said a recent OPG statement.
It said authorities were notified immediately and indigenous representatives, who had been participating in the archeological work, ensured appropriate cultural protocols were observed.
Construction activities for the new parking lot had been on pause since April 10th to undertake the archeological work.
DRPS Investigation
Durham Regional Police Services (DRPS) conducted an initial criminal forensic investigation and they, along with the coroner, assessed the fragment as ancestral since it had been buried for a prolonged period, OPG said.
“OPG recognizes the significance and sensitivity of this finding. We are committed to working closely with the local indigenous communities and authorities to ensure a thorough and culturally respectful investigation. Access to the site is strictly controlled, and we are treating the area with the utmost care, sensitivity, and reverence. We will know more information once a full investigation is complete,” it added.
The City of Oshawa has also offered its assistance to all parties, according to Councillor Brian Nicholson.
