Orillia Packet Times - Huron remains identified

Remains identified as Huron

By MIRANDA MINASSIAN, Orillia Packet Times

The aboriginal remains found in Cumberland Beach have been identified as Huron, says the leader of Rama First Nation.

"We are given to understand that they are of Huron descent," Chief Sharon Stinson Henry said Monday.

"The ministry has taken charge and will be notifying the Huron leaders."

 The remains of several aboriginal people were discovered Wednesday morning during the servicing of the West Shore Beach Club at the corner of Turnbull Drive and Third Avenue, on the former Bramshott Farm in Severn Township.

As the nearest First Nation to the burial, Rama First Nation was notified of the discovery.

"We, of course, offered to work co-operatively with the Huron," Stinson Henry said.

"We want to ensure that the remains are treated with dignity and respect."

An investigation into the findings is being completed by the Ministry of Consumer Service Cemeteries Regulation Unit.

Stinson Henry said she is confident that the appropriate measures and care have been taken to date to ensure the remains have been respected and preserved, she said.

"I think everyone feels the same way, that it is a very important process to ensure that the remains are dealt with with respect," Stinson Henry said.

Archeologists have been on-site since Friday, identifying the remains.

Once the archeologist determines the origin and extent of the burial site, Huron First Nations representatives and the land owner must come to an agreement about final disposition of the site and the remains, as outlined in the Cemeteries Act.