Algonquins file competing claims on Ottawa archeological dig

Two bands of Algonquins have filed competing claims for a cache of 2,000-year-old aboriginal artifacts discovered beside the Rideau River in November by a team of archeologists working for the City of Ottawa.

Gilbert Whiteduck, chief of the Kitigan Zibi Anishniabeg in Maniwaki, 130 kilometres north of Ottawa, said the National Capital Commission should have consulted Quebec Algonquins about the dig in Ottawa that uncovered aboriginal artifacts dating from 300 BC to 700 BC.

Whiteduck said the Algonquins from Golden Lake — 140 kilometres northwest of Ottawa — can't demand the artifacts for themselves because the material belongs to all Algonquins. Robert Potts, a lawyer representing the Golden Lake Algonquins in one of Canada's largest land claims, said the band wants the artifacts back.

The aboriginal camp included stone tools, animal bones and decorated pottery shards.

Jacqueline Fisher, an archeologist responsible for the dig, said what happens to the artifacts is up to the city.