(Photo: Minister Gary Anandasangaree and several Sasakatchewan Chiefs-provided by the Government of Canada)
Crown Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Minister Gary Anandasangaree visited Wanuskewin Heritage Park today along with several First Nations leaders for multiple Agricultural Benefits Claims announcements.
Agricultural Benefits Claims, also known as cows and ploughs, have now been settled for the following 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.
“For too long, Treaty promises have been broken, impacting our communities’ economic growth and self-sufficiency. Settling Agricultural Benefit Claims is a step toward justice, but true reconciliation means full accountability and action. Our Nations deserve the resources promised to build strong, self-sustaining futures. We will continue to stand together to ensure these agreements bring real change for generations to come,” stated Chief Kirby Constant of James Smith Cree Nation
The 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.
“Resolving specific claims is a key part of the Government of Canada’s reconciliation with First Nations. Working in partnership with First Nations, Canada has resolved over 742 specific claims since 1973 These negotiated settlements are a step toward a renewed relationship with the community, and one that was necessary in order for Canada to be an honest and accountable Treaty partner. It’s the right thing to do,” stated Minister Anandasangaree.
Once fully settled, $1.72 billion will be provided in combined compensation to the 14 First Nations.
Minister Anandasangaree also announced that Canada and Cumberland House Cree Nation reached a land claim settlement.
The claim dates back to 1876, when land was first set aside for Cumberland House Cree Nation in Treaty 5 territory. The Nation argued the land was of poor agricultural quality and petitioned Canada for a new reserve. Canada set aside IR100A immediately south and east of James Smith Cree Nation, and in 1902, Canada sold the southern half of IR100A and transferred the remainder of the land and its people to James Smith Cree Nation.
Cumberland House Cree Nation was not properly consulted on any of these changes and was not compensated for the loss of the land.
The settlement announced today includes approximately $570 million in financial compensation to Cumberland House Cree Nation for past wrongs and will support the community in adding approximately 27,000 acres to reserve under the Additions to Reserve Policy.
“After almost twelve years of negotiations on a land claim we filed almost forty years ago, Cumberland House Cree Nation is relieved to have reached a very fair deal with Canada. By investing this money now, we will ensure better lives not just for our members today, but also for their grandchildren’s grandchildren,” said Chief Rene Chaboyer of Cumberland House Cree Nation.
Crown Indigenous Relations stated that it will continue to work with First Nations in Treaties 4, 5, 6, and 10 on the remaining outstanding agricultural benefit provisions in those Treaties.