OTTAWA,
ON, May 17, 2024 /CNW/ - Today, the
Chacachas Treaty Nation and the Government of Canada announced that Chacachas and
Canada have taken a key step
toward a renewed relationship by signing a Memorandum of
Understanding for Advancing Reconciliation.
The co-developed Memorandum will help guide discussions between
the parties as they move forward together to reconstitute Chacachas
as a Treaty First Nation in a fair and just manner. This
collaborative work will be based on the Federal Court's 2020
decision in Watson-Bear,
where they found that the Crown unlawfully combined the historic
Chacachas Band with Ochapowace First
Nation in 1884. The Court found that Chacachas is entitled
to assert ongoing Treaty rights under Treaty 4 as a distinct Treaty
First Nation with constitutionally protected rights.
While the Memorandum of Understanding announced today does not
resolve the Watson-Bear
litigation, it is part of the process of trying to find fair and
just solutions outside of the courts that work for all parties.
The Memorandum sets out how facilitated discussions will take
place between Chacachas and Canada
and what topics will be covered as the parties work together to try
to find common ground for moving into formal negotiations. Topics
that will be explored under the Memorandum include for example: how
to re-establish Chacachas as a Treaty First Nation in keeping with
the Court's decision, as well as self-government arrangements and
co-operative measures to preserve and protect Chacachas' culture,
language and heritage.
The Memorandum is the result of ongoing discussions and is an
example of how Canada is working
with Indigenous partners to renew the relationship, support the
work of nation rebuilding and promote a lasting and meaningful
reconciliation.
Quotes
"Chacachas is a prime example of what can be
achieved when Treaty signatories commit to work together for a
common goal. We look forward to the challenges ahead – to implement
the Treaty promises made nearly 150 years ago – and to rebuild our
Nation for the betterment of this generation and those to
follow."
Okimawkan Charlie Bear
Chacachas Treaty Nation
"This co-developed Memorandum of Understanding marks a new
beginning with Chacachas as we move forward as Treaty partners in
our nation-to-nation relationship. It is my hope that this progress
can serve as a symbol of our dedication to work together on shared
solutions that advance Chacachas' priorities for reconciliation and
their vision for self-governance and a better future."
The Honourable Gary Anandasangaree
Minister of Crown–Indigenous Relations
"Today's agreement is an important step towards Chacachas Treaty
Nation gaining back their right to self-governance. This
collaborative work with partners will help lead the path towards
reconciliation, and actively foster self-determination within the
community."
The Honourable Patty Hajdu
Minister of Indigenous Services
Quick facts
- The Watson-Bear
litigation was first filed in 2000.
- The parties first began talks to try to find solutions outside
of the courts in 2022. The Memorandum sets out the process and
priority topics for continued dialogue and collaboration.
- The goal is to find the common ground needed to arrive at a
mutually acceptable path forward and then ultimately begin formal
negotiations.
- The parties look forward to advancing this important
collaborative work in the spirit of partnership and respect.
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SOURCE Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs
Canada