Canada’s Specific Claims Policy

As stated in my first article, the Kaministikominahiko-skak Cree Nation is a Sovereign Nation and was signatory to Indian Treaty 5 in Cumberland House which is situated 200 miles northeast of Prince Albert, Saskatchewan.

Our people have been waiting over 140 years for the Canadian government to take action on the unfinished treaty business with our Cree Nation. Our priority is the recognition of our Inherent and Treaty Rights through Nation to Nation negotiations.

Research shows that the government of Canada has a process in place to deal with our issue through their Specific Claims Policy. The policy states that “Specific claims arise when there is an outstanding historical grievance between a First Nation and the Crown that relates to an unfilled obligation of a treaty or another agreement, or a breach of statutory responsibilities by the Crown.

Canada is committed to honouring its lawful obligations to First Nations. By addressing historic injustices which have undermined trust and co-operation, strong partnerships among Aboriginal people, governments and the private sector are emerging. In addition to building these partnerships settling specific claims helps economic development on Aboriginal lands and in surrounding communities.

Canada’s specific Claims Policy was established to allow First Nations to have their claims appropriately addressed through negotiations by the government without having to go to court. Claims are accepted when it is determined that Canada has breached its lawful obligation to a First Nation.” (Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada)

This policy sounds good to us, and what are they waiting for? Instead of making more excuses, we believe that they should get on with the program