The newly elected Grand Chief of the Innu Nation wants to finally wrap up land claims negotiations which have been ongoing for decades.

Simon Pokue says that’s his top priority in his new role.

He says the Innu Nation has been at the table with both the federal and provincial governments for more than 30 years “and (a conclusion) is long overdue now.”

Pokue says while a lot of issues have been agreed upon, “the only problem has been delays with both governments,” adding they’re trying to “move those files forward.”

In the meantime, Pokue, a former band council chief in Natuashish, says some outstanding issues remain with the provincial government, which he hopes to get addressed.

That includes items related to court cases, rate mitigation, “and a bunch of others.”

Pokue says he’s looking forward to meeting with government officials and Premier Andrew Furey to address those concerns.