Statement from Chief Shawn Longman on the Occasion of TransCanada Pipeline's Submission to the National Energy Board Regarding the Momentous Energy East Project

REGINA, SASKATCHEWAN--(Marketwired - Oct. 31, 2014) - On behalf of the George Gordon First Nation, I would like to express my appreciation to TransCanada Pipelines for engaging our community before it begins development on the proposed Energy East project. The framework for our engagement was formalized through a memorandum of understanding (MOU) dated February 12^th, 2014.

As you may or may not be aware, the Energy East Project proposes to traverse the traditional and/or occupancy lands of the George Gordon First Nation. The George Gordon First Nation has rights which are derived out of Treaty number Four and asserts Aboriginal rights protected by section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982.

As stewards of the land, within our traditional territory, we are obligated to ensure that all potential adverse environmental impacts are to be identified and mitigated. Through our relationship with TransCanada Pipelines, we have conducted a 'Traditional Land Use Study,' the first in all of Canada, which has allowed us to engage our community members and elders with respect to the Energy East Project.

We are confident that the project will pose very little risk and that any development, and subsequent operations, will be exercised in a responsible manner respecting the environment and our inherent and Treaty Rights. Through this process, the George Gordon First Nation is proud to uphold the national economic interest while exercising our obligations as stewards of the land.

Sincerely,

Chief Shawn Longman, George Gordon First Nation