Saskatoon, Saskatchewan - Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada
The Government has committed to settling longstanding claims by First Nations more quickly so they can take advantage of economic opportunities and launch new community initiatives. For decades, colonial policies denied First Nations their inherent rights and Treaty rights, leading to the dispossession of land and resources. Advancing reconciliation means resolving these historical issues so that First Nations leaders are empowered to take on new and exciting opportunities for future generations.
Today, the Honourable Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs and Minister responsible for the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, would like to acknowledge the settlement of Agricultural Benefit Claims with the following First Nation Communities: Ahtahkakoop Cree Nation; James Smith Cree Nation #370; Little Black Bear First Nation; Ministikwan Lake Cree Nation; Moosomin First Nation; Mosquito, Grizzly Bear's Head, Lean Man First Nation; Pasqua First Nation; Piapot First Nation; Pelican Lake First Nation; Poundmaker Cree Nation; Saulteaux First Nation; Sweetgrass First Nation; Waterhen Lake First Nation and Witchekan Lake First Nation.
These claims address failed Treaty promises by Canada to provide promised ploughs, seeds for important crops, livestock such as cows and bulls, and other farming necessities. These agricultural benefits were meant to facilitate First Nation economic development.
Once fully settled, $1.72B will be provided in combined compensation to these First Nations. Under the expedited resolution framework for agricultural benefits claims, Canada has provided a total of about $4.58B to First Nations in the western provinces since May 2023.
Crown Indigenous Relations will continue to work with First Nations in Treaties 4, 5, 6, and 10 on the remaining outstanding agricultural benefit provisions in these Treaties. Our ongoing goal to fully implementing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples that includes Indigenous Peoples' inherent right to self-determination.
