The assumed authority of the Canadian Mohawk, first Nation tribe in Kahnawake was questioned this week. Moreover, the tribe was fined $2 million for its supposedly illegal gambling activities with Golden Palace online casino.

The Kahnawake Gaming Commission has hosted hundreds of online gambling operations to which it has granted licenses over the past years. In fact, it is widely held that 60 percent of all gambling online goes through the territory.

Now the Indians respond, and they have what to say that will interest not only the Quebec government persecuting them, but the entire gambling community as well.

Chuck Barnett of the Mohawk Internet Technologies (MIT) board said gambling operators who are licensed by Kahnawake need not fear the developments. The Spokesperson added that "these events [the fine against Golden Palace, JW] have little, if anything to do with the jurisdiction of the Mohawks of Kahnawake."

He added and said that Kahnawake has recognized and respected policing agreement and policies by the Quebec Minister of Security since the late 90's. As a matter of fact, Kahnawake and Quebec have Ten Administrative Agreements regulating their relations.

So maybe the story was overblown out of proportions by Canadian and web media. Setting the facts straight does help. Kahnawake has done it. now Quebec should and we can all make up our minds. Then the courts will follow.