Heritage Regina is urging City Council to consult with the Métis Nation-Saskatchewan before approving an application to demolish a building once connected to Louis Riel.
The Planning Commission is recommending that the Burns Hanley Building on Cornwall Street, which was site of the former St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church be torn down.
Jackie Schmidt, President of Heritage Regina claims in 1885 a priest stood guard over Riel’s body following his death until he was moved to Manitoba for burial.
“I just feel like there needs to be a fulsome discussion with the Métis people to get their feedback and they need to come to the table and have a discussion about what they feel should happen at the site,” Schmidt said as she addressed council.
She explained that the building was used for several days to safeguard Riel’s remains until transportation.
“In 1885 following the funeral mass for Louis Riel, the body was temporarily interned in the church until it can be transported to its current burial site in Saint Boniface in Manitoba,” she explained.
Schmidt said the cultural heritage of the site has not been adequately considered by the city and that roof repairs would have negated much of the damage.
“A review of the conditions report provided by the owners and clearly indicates that roof repairs in the past could have prevented most of the damage listed to support demolition,” said Schmidt.
In its recommendation to Council, the Planning Commission said that the property owner should submit an interim plan which reflects the heritage significance of the site.
City Council could vote on the demolition application next week.