3 Sask. First Nations reach cows and plows settlements with federal government
Council and chief at Muscowpetung Saulteaux Nation have begun the process of distributing funds from a federal agriculture benefit agreement, more commonly known as a ‘cows and plows’ settlement.
“We’re actually working on the distribution today,” Muscowpetung Chief Melissa Tavita said, calling it a “bittersweet moment.”
The nearly $99-million settlement with the federal government addresses historical promises made under Treaty 4, in which First Nations were assured agricultural assistance, including livestock and farming equipment, as part of the treaty agreement.
“When you hear the stories about all the claims that were going through, it kind of makes you angry, because our people had to go through that,” Tavita said. “It makes you feel bad that they were treated the way they were.”
Muscowpetung Saulteaux Nation, located northeast of Regina, held a ceremony Wednesday to celebrate the deal. It joins a growing list of communities reaching resolutions with Canada over long-unmet treaty obligations.
This week, the federal government also announced a $208-million settlement with Big River First Nation and a $124-million settlement with One Arrow First Nation.
“This settlement signifies new and promising pathways for current and future generations of our people,” Big River Chief Jonathan Bear said in a news release. “While also affirming our Nation-to-Nation relationship with Canada by acknowledging our inherent Treaty rights as First Nations people.”
Ottawa has settled more than 50 agricultural benefits claims in Treaty 4, 5, 6 and 10 territory, paying out more than $6.9 billion in compensation.
“Every member of Muscowpetung is going to be getting a payout,” Tavita said. “It’s either a $30K lump sum with $2,000 a year after that for five years, or else a $40K payout.”
Muscowpetung nation members under the age of 18 will have their funds placed in a secure trust, earning 4 per cent annually, to be accessed once they reach adulthood.
