LAC LA RONGE — After 135 years of waiting, the Lac La Ronge Indian Band (LLRIB) has successfully negotiated a nearly $602-million settlement with Canada.
“This is a momentous day for Lac La Ronge Indian Band," said LLRIB Chief Tammy Cook-Searson. “The membership’s overwhelming support for the settlement demonstrates their commitment to securing a better future for our community,”
LLRIB located approximately 250 kilometres north of Prince Albert is one of the largest First Nations in the province.
“This agreement represents a significant step toward justice and reconciliation for the members of our First Nation,” said Cook-Searson.
The settlement addresses the unfulfilled Agricultural Benefits Agreement commonly referred to as the ‘cows and plows’ clause in Treaty 6.
On Feb 11, 1889, Chief James Roberts signed the adhesion to Treaty 6 on behalf of his tribe and they settled on reserve, however, the federal government failed to supply the hand tools, farming equipment, and seeds.
Originally, the treaty clause was the Crown's promise to provide an agricultural starter kit to all those who agreed to live on the newly created reserve land. They were to become farmers and give up the hunter-gatherer lifestyle they had always relied upon.
“We are pleased that Canada has finally recognized and acknowledged its failure to fulfil the obligations under Treaty 6, and this settlement is a critical step towards rectifying that historical wrong,” said Cook-Searson.
The settlement was approved by LLRIB following extensive community consultations where members could learn about the settlement, ask questions, and voice their opinions.
