There may be renewed hope {that a} longstanding treaty dispute could possibly be lastly headed for a decision.
Monday, officers introduced mediation talks will start with the Robinson Huron Treaty Litigation Fund (RHTLF) management and the governments of Canada and Ontario.
The Honourable Murray Sinclair will function the mediator.
At concern is the destiny of the treaty, signed by 21 First Nations that promised to share useful resource income with First Nations in change for entry to their territory.
Whereas the treaty referred to as for normal will increase in revenue-sharing charges, the quantity has not elevated since 1875, when it was elevated to $4 per particular person.
The federal and provincial governments have opposed the case in court docket, and have disputed which stage of presidency can be accountable for any award settlement.
The RHTLF mentioned Monday an settlement has been reached to proceed with mediation.
“On Thursday, Justice (Patricia) Hennessy agreed to an adjournment which can delay Stage Three proceedings by two weeks to permit all events to return collectively for settlement discussions,” the RHTLF mentioned in a information launch.
“Stage Three – the ultimate stage of the Robinson Huron Treaty annuities case – was scheduled to start as we speak. This stage considers the remaining points, together with the quantity of compensation – if any – that’s owed to the beneficiaries. It will additionally resolve whether or not legal responsibility to pay compensation lies with Ontario or Canada, or each.”
The choice to go to mediation follows a December assembly with the governments of Canada and Ontario to debate treaty renewal and the continuing annuities case.
“True reconciliation can’t be achieved in a courtroom,” Chief Dean Sayers of Batchewana First Nation is quoted as saying within the launch.
“We’re hopeful that with dialogue, we are able to attain a negotiated settlement of the annuities litigation with the Crowns.”
“Starting the mediation course of is a crucial step in the fitting route,” mentioned spokesperson Duke Peltier of Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory.
“We hope to proceed to work with the Crowns in direction of treaty renewal and a settlement.”
At this level, any particulars associated to negotiations are confidential, the discharge mentioned.
“Extra particulars could also be launched as accessible.”
