Innu Nation confronts N. L. government over caribou dump

The Innu Nation is condemning the Newfoundland and Labrador Department of Natural Resources for dumping dozens of caribou corpses in a landfill.

Prote Poker, the grand chief of the Innu Nation, claimed it was "a sin" to dispose of the caribou in this way. The most sacred parts of the animals, such as the hides, antlers, and bones, could still have been used by his people.

Between 2008 and 2011, fifty five caribou were confiscated in areas where caribou hunting is illegal. Many of the caribou were shot by Quebec Innu.

The caribou carcasses were disposed of because they were no longer needed as evidence to charge the hunters. The animals were not returned to the Innu because of possible health liabilities.

Poker said he hopes that Labrador officials will consult with the Innu Nation before disposing of any more caribou carcasses in the future.

Flickr Photo by: B Mully

STORY WRITTEN BY: KRISTOBAL M, EUGENIO