Coldwater Narrows Land Claim Settlement

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CHIPPEWA TRI-COUNCIL SUPPORT COLDWATER NARROWS LAND CLAIM SETTLEMENT OFFER
NAWASH FIRST NATION REQUIRES A SECOND VOTE

April 16, 2012--The Coldwater Narrows Land Claim Settlement offer was overwhelmingly supported by the Chippewa Tri-Council First Nation communities involved in a ratification vote held on Saturday, April 14, 2012. The Chippewas of Rama, Chippewas of Georgina Island and Beausoleil First Nations voted to accept the Government of Canada’s offer of settlement for the Coldwater Narrows Land Claim, a claim dating back to 1836.

The Chippewas of Nawash First Nation received tremendous support for the offer but failed to meet the minimum number required by Canada for a successful vote.

The Indian Referendum regulations provide for a second vote in these circumstances and Chief Scott Lee from Nawash said that his Council will request a second vote from the Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada. It is expected that, based on the positive results recorded, a second vote will be approved. Nawash First Nation has indicated that they will move this process along as expeditiously as possible. We will keep you informed.

Canada tabled a settlement offer in May of 2011. Over the past few months, in all four communities, leaders reviewed the settlement with their respective members in preparation for Saturday’s historic vote. The proposed settlement includes $307-million in financial compensation and the opportunity to replace lands that were taken on a willing buyer, willing seller basis through the Additions-to-Reserve process. A majority of members from each community were required to participate in the vote and a majority of those in favour of the proposed settlement in order for the ratification process to be successful.

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For further information, please contact Dr. Ian Johnson, CTC Negotiator, at 705-734-2000 or Cathy Edney, CTC Communications, at 705-325-3611 ext. 1416.