A $10 billion proposed settlement has been reached involving the Robinson Huron Treaty annuities case. Robinson Huron Treaty Leadership, the governments of Ontario and Canada announced the agreement and next steps on Saturday.
21 First Nations are involved, including Nipissing and Dokis.
“With the proposed settlement we are now moving forward together on the path of reconciliation,” says Chief Dean Sayers, Batchewana First Nation. “It’s important to remember that this settlement is just the first step on the path of reconciliation. The proposed settlement agreement only deals with past compensation. This settlement is extremely significant, but we still have a long way to go. We still need to negotiate the implementation of the augmentation process going forward.”
The settlement includes $5 billion each from both Canada and Ontario for past losses, with each of the 21 First Nations receiving a portion of the proceeds of compensation.
“The collective nature of the annuity requires portions to be set aside for community development and to ensure a bright future for the generations to come,” says Chief Sayers. “There will also be an individual component to the annuity and the First Nations will distribute this money to individuals.”
Officials say the three parties have been working together to find a resolution outside of the courtroom for over a year.
For more information visit robinsonhurontreaty1850.com/