Agricultural Benefits (Cows & Ploughs) Specific Claim

Chief & Council of the Fisher River Cree Nation are pleased to report that the Fisher River Cree Nation’s Agricultural Benefits (Cows and Ploughs) Specific Claim was submitted to Canada’s Specific Claims Branch during the week of April 7, 2025

Next Steps

Fisher River Cree Nation’s submission consists of historical report, a legal submission and supporting documents. It will be reviewed and assessed by Canada. If Canada believes that it has a legal obligation owning to Fisher River Cree Nation, the Minister will notify Chief & Council that the claim has been accepted for negotiation.

Normally Canada’s research and assessment process takes 3.5 years, but Canada has implemented an accelerated process for certain claims, including Treaty 5 Agricultural Benefits claims, so we anticipate that in 12-18 months Canada will complete the review (April 2026-October 2026).

Once Chief & Council receive a response from Canada regarding our submission, we will provide further information to Fisher River Cree Nation members. It is anticipated that if we negotiate a settlement of this claim with Canada, the process will take approximately 12-18 months (April 2027-April 2028)

Treaty 5 Disparity Specific Claim

Chief & Council of the Fisher River Cree Nation are pleased to report that the Fisher River Cree Nation’s Treaty 5 Disparity Specific Claim was submitted to Canada’s Specific Claims Branch during the week of April 7, 2025.

Fisher River Cree Nation’s Treaty 5 Disparity Specific Claim alleges that Canada failed to negotiate equitable terms regarding reserve land allocation and gratuity provisions in Treaty 5.

Treaty 5 provides 160 acres of reserve land for a family of five while other Treaties provide 640 acres per family of five. Fisher River received only 100 aces per family of five.

Next Steps

Fisher River Cree Nation’s submission consists of historical report, a legal submission and supporting documents. It will be reviewed and assessed by Canada. If Canada believes that it has a legal obligation owning to Fisher River Cree Nation, the Minister will notify Chief & Council that the claim has been accepted for negotiation.

Canada’s research and assessment process for this claim will take 3.5 years, Once Chief & Council receive a response from Canada regarding our submission, we will provide further information to Fisher River Cree Nation members.