The provincial government has launched public consultations on renaming Red Indian Lake.

Government suddenly announced last month that the name of the lake, long associated with the Beothuk, was being changed to a Mi’kmaq term meaning “peaceful lake.”

That caused public outcry from area residents and others who felt if a name change was made that it honour the memory of the Beothuk people.

Residents of Buchans, Millertown, and Buchans Junction will have opportunities to express their views in public sessions scheduled for next week. Because of public health guidelines, space is limited.

Those interested in attending must call their local town office to register. Residents and others will also be able to submit their views by regular mail, email, and online in the coming days.