We write to provide you with an update about the Agricultural Benefits Claim, also known as the “Cows and Plows Claim” that is being negotiated by Mistawasis Nêhiyawak. The Cows and Plows Claim represents a historic opportunity to better our Nation and to create a bright future for our people. We strongly encourage you to ask questions so that you may be informed.
The Cows and Plows Claim is based on Canada’s breaches of its Treaty, fiduciary, trust and honourable obligations to fulfil the promises for the provision of agricultural benefits and instruction contained in Treaty No. 6.
- Mistawasis Nêhiyawak filed the Cows and Plows Claim on March 18, 2024.
- On February 5, 2025, Canada has offered to negotiate a settlement of the Cows and Plows
Claim. - We have accepted Canada’s offer to negotiate on February 10, 2025, but we are still waiting for Canada to schedule the date for the first negotiation meeting.
Negotiations for these claims have not resumed since the election of the new Liberal government.
We are lobbying the Department of Crown-Indigenous Relations’ office and the Minister to begin negotiations as soon as possible. There is an accelerated resolution process for this claim and compensation is based on the same formula for all Nations in Treaty 4, 5 and 6. Once we get to the negotiating table, we are hopeful that our claim will be settled quickly.
Please note that we have not yet received any settlement offer or funds. We will report back to membership as soon as the compensation amount is agreed upon. In order to accept any settlement of this claim, membership has to vote to accept the claim.
We will continue to keep membership updated on the progress of the Cows and Plows Claim. Also, please provide the Band Office with updated contact and banking information as soon as possible. finance@mistawasis.ca or 1-306-466-4800.
We look forward to your participation in these important decisions.
Sincerely,
Chief Daryl Watson and Council