Left to Right: Norman McKenzie, Elder Bella McKenzie, Chief Tammy Cook-Searson, and Councillor Gerald McKenzie at the community hall in Grandmother’s Bay during the voting for the Treaty 6 Agricultural Benefits Claim. (Photo provided by LLRIB)

By NC Raine, Local Journalism Initiative

cows and plows

After 135 years a monumental settlement has been reached between the Lac La Ronge Indian Band and Canada

Aug 29, 2024 | 12:00 PM

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.

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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 alwasy relied upon.

“We are pleased that Canada has finally recognized and acknowledged its failure to fulfill 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.

A four-day community vote started on Aug. 19 followed by in-person voting on August 23. A record turnout of more than 5,000 ballots were cast. Out of the 8,462 eligible votes, 95 percent voted to accept the settlement offer.

“This settlement is the result of careful consideration and input from our community members,” said Cook-Searson. “We wanted to ensure that everyone’s voice was heard and that the decision we made together reflects the collective will and best interests of the band membership.”

Following the community’s approvalt, LLRIB’s leadership will proceed over the next several month with finalizing the agreement with the federal government.

Cook-Searson said there has already been community planning on how the money will be dispersed. Some of the money will be given through a per capita distribution to each member, with those over 18 getting a larger amount. Other funds from the settlement will be set aside for community benefit.