Muscowpetung Saulteaux Nation, Treaty 4 Territory, Saskatchewan - Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern and Arctic Affairs Canada and Muscowpetung Saulteaux Nation
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:
- Housing Development: Significant funding will be dedicated to addressing the Nation's housing backlog. Modern, culturally aligned homes will be constructed to ensure safe and dignified living conditions for families on-reserve.
- Infrastructure Upgrades: Investment in road systems, community facilities, and connectivity will strengthen the Nation's ability to support future development and improve quality of life.
- Water System Improvements: Ensuring clean and reliable drinking water remains a top priority. This funding will be used to upgrade water-treatment systems and ensure every home has access to safe water.
- Youth Programming: The future of Muscowpetung lies in its youth. New programming will focus on cultural education, sports, leadership development, and mental wellness-empowering the next generation of leaders.
- Per-Capita Distribution: Every adult member of Muscowpetung will receive a one-time payment of $40,000. For Nation members under the age of 18, the funds will be placed in a secure trust account, earning 4% annually, to be accessed once they reach adulthood. This ensures that the benefits of the settlement are shared today and into the future.
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.
