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October 20, 2009 PROVINCE, TREATY #3 FIRST NATIONS SIGN AGREEMENT TO STRENGTHEN WORKING RELATIONSHIPA memorandum of understanding to further improve relations between the Anishinaabe Nation of Treaty #3 and the Province of Manitoba was signed today at the Grand Council of Treaty #3 fall assembly in Asubpeeschoseewagong (Grassy Narrows) First Nation, just north of Kenora, Ont.
The parties have agreed to discussions on several priorities including health services, natural resource management, economic development and land-use planning with an emphasis on joint stewardship of sacred sites.
“Today’s signing signals our good faith and understanding that a closer working relationship with the Grand Council of Treaty #3 benefits us all,” said Culture, Heritage, Tourism and Sports Minister Eric Robinson, acting minister of Aboriginal and northern Affairs. “It also builds on our agreement with Treaty One First Nations signed earlier this year in furthering our ongoing commitment to the fulfilment of treaty obligations.”
“This is an historic and unprecedented agreement by Grand Council Treaty #3 with the Province of Manitoba,” stated Ogichidaakwe Diane Kelly. “Treaty #3 covers some 20,000 square miles of eastern Manitoba and we do require focused discussions on matters of mutual concern. This agreement will provide a clearer understanding of opportunities we have to advance our shared interests.”
Treaty #3 was signed on Oct. 3, 1873, at the northwest angle of the Lake of the Woods. The Grand Council of Treaty #3 is the traditional government of the Anishinaabe Nation located in the 55,000-square-mile territory of Treaty #3. The grand council includes 28 First Nations, two of which are located in Manitoba.
“This agreement builds on Grand Council Treaty #3’s governance strategy, to create more pragmatic agendas in partnership with other governments,” Kelly said. “We are moving forward with government-to-government agreements.”
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The province is distributing this news release on behalf of the Grand Council of Treaty #3 and the Government of Manitoba |
