This week, I want to share an update on the MSC Baltic III, which remains grounded in Cedar Cove. Over the winter, our region experienced challenging weather and heavy ice, creating difficult conditions in the area. As we move into spring and the fishing season begins, we recognize that the waters around Little Port and Cedar Cove will become increasingly active.

Our leadership team has been in ongoing discussions with MSC to ensure that the priorities of our communities and members remain central as planning continues, with a focus on safety, environmental responsibility, and meaningful local involvement. Companies undertaking work in our communities must go beyond consultation and genuinely engage with our Nation—understanding community priorities, creating opportunities for our involvement, and ensuring that local knowledge and participation guide how work is planned and carried out. We will hold every company to this standard on our territory.

As has been reported in the media, the next steps of the wreck removal process are now moving forward. Our shared goal is a safe and successful operation, where all parties work together respectfully to ensure the vessel is removed safely and efficiently.

For over a year, our communities have lived with this situation, and we have heard your concerns every step of the way. Your Nation has constantly brought those forward at every meeting and opportunity. Through our persistence and with your support, recent discussions have led to clearer progress and movement into the next phase of work. We are encouraged by the constructive working relationship taking shape and remain hopeful that this collaboration will continue to support timely progress and deliver direct benefits to our communities, both through this work and into the future.

We also encourage cooperation throughout this process and are optimistic that opportunities will arise for our members to participate and gain employment as part of the work. As always, we will remain engaged and continue to advocate for the interests of our communities as this work moves forward.