Muscowpetung Saulteaux Nation and Canada reach agricultural benefits agreement
Today, Chief Melissa Tavita of Muscowpetung Saulteaux Nation and the Honourable Rebecca Alty, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, announced a settlement agreement resolving the Nation's Agricultural Benefits claim, also known as a Cows and Plows settlement.
Canada will pay nearly $99 million in compensation to the First Nation for failing to fulfill its Treaty 4 obligations to provide farming tools, crop seeds, and livestock.
These agricultural benefits were meant to facilitate Muscowpetung Saulteaux Nation's transition to a strong, self-sustaining community through farming. However, as a result of Canada's failure to meet its Treaty obligations, the Nation did not have the equipment it needed to support its members.
The settlement will be strategically allocated to uplift the Nation and support long-term prosperity. Key investments include:
Settling specific claims is an important part of Canada's ongoing efforts to advance reconciliation by rebuilding trust and strengthening its relationships with First Nations. By providing fair compensation in recognition of unkept promises, Canada is taking responsibility and working toward a better future. This work is guided by the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act.
Quotes
'This settlement comes not just as a financial resolution, but as a meaningful acknowledgment of broken promises. While farming tools may no longer carry the same value they once would have for our people, this compensation allows us to invest in the tools of today—housing, infrastructure, water, youth, and our Nation's long-term financial sovereignty.
We thank the Government of Canada for finally acknowledging this longstanding injustice. We also give thanks to our ancestors and to the people of Muscowpetung who stood strong over the generations. On this 150th year of Treaty 4, we honour Chief Cheekuk's vision by investing in a future that uplifts every member of our Nation.'
Chief Melissa Tavita
Muscowpetung Saulteaux Nation
'The resolution of this claim is an important step in Canada's relationship with the Muscowpetung Saulteaux Nation. Canada failed to uphold the Cows and Plows promise under Treaty 4, and acted without considering the economic and historical implications. This settlement is about taking responsibility and making things right.'
The Honourable Rebecca Alty
Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations
'The settlement with Muscowpetung Saulteaux Nation under Treaty 4 is a step forward in our ongoing efforts to renew the Government of Canada's relationship with the Nation and reflects our commitment to working in partnership.'
The Honourable Buckley Belanger
Secretary of State (Rural Development)
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Muscowpetung Saulteaux Nation
Specific Claims
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SOURCE Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada
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