Diver finds evidence of Cree sacred site that was destroyed in 1966

Saskatoon-based diver, Steven Thair is the first person in nearly 50 years to lay eyes on what remains of an important First Nations' sacred site. For hundreds of years, the site - a giant boulder known in Cree as Mastaseni - marked a sacred meeting place in southern Saskatchewan. In 1966, government workers blew it up. It stood in the path of a man-made lake that was to be created by a dam.

"This isn't just a piece of history. This site still is consecrated ground."

"Initially it was just a personal challenge to get me back diving in Saskatchewan, but as I got into the subject I realized this was pretty significant"

Thair located the rock at a depth of 21 metres. As he was securing a search line, he lost his balance. When he put his hand out to steady himself, he touched the sharp edge of dynamited rock. He says it is a difficult dive, with visibility at less than 2 metres, with lights.

"It's a story that needs to be told. There's an opportunity here for healing"