FORT SMITH, NWT - A signing ceremony was held recently to celebrate the settlement of Salt River First Nation’s Treaty Land Entitlement claim. Salt River First Nation, (SRFN), the Government of Canada, and the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) signed a settlement agreement which fulfills commitments made to the First Nation in Treaty 8, signed in 1899.

"This settlement marks a significant accomplishment for all parties, and reflects Canada’s commitment to resolve outstanding claims," said Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development, Robert D. Nault. "The successful resolution of Salt River First Nation’s Treaty Land Entitlement claim will create a positive environment for new economic opportunities, and will contribute towards a stronger community for Salt River First Nation members."

The settlement agreement provides a reserve land base for SRFN, thus fulfilling commitments made in Treaty 8, which was signed in 1899. The agreement sets aside approximately 166 square miles of reserve lands at sixteen sites in and around the Town of Fort Smith, and four sites in Wood Buffalo National Park. Chief Jim Schaefer thanked all concerned for their efforts. "Today is a significant achievement, and marks a renewal of the relationship that began with Treaty 8 between the Government of Canada and our people many years ago," said Chief Jim Schaefer. "We are receiving the land that was promised to our ancestors, and now we can begin building our community and investing wisely for the benefit of our youth and future generations."

"The Salt River First Nation Treaty Land Entitlement will provide significant benefits for Salt River First Nation members as well as other residents of the Fort Smith area," said Jim Antoine, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs for the GNWT. "We look forward to building a stronger relationship with the Salt River First Nation as they implement the Final Agreement."

Under the settlement, Canada is also providing Salt River First Nation with $83.18 million, which may be used to acquire additional lands; build infrastructure on reserve; finance educational, cultural and recreational activities for youth; and invest in business and economic development initiatives.

"Settlements like this one will improve the quality of life for the Salt River First Nation, and will have far reaching benefits for economic and social growth in the Northwest Territories," said Ethel Blondin-Andrew, Member of Parliament for the Western Arctic. SRFN was a signatory to Treaty 8 when it was signed in Fort Fitzgerald in 1899. Treaty 8 sets out the fundamental relationship between Salt River First Nation and the Government of Canada. Today, SRFN has about 762 members, many of whom reside in and around the Town of Fort Smith.