News Releases

News Release - Manitoba

May 14, 2019

Province Partnering with Peguis First Nation to Create New Economic Opportunities



PEGUIS FIRST NATION—The Manitoba government is working in partnership with Peguis First Nation on two initiatives to advance reconciliation and self-determination, and create new economic opportunities in the community, Premier Brian Pallister announced here today.   

“Our government is committed to advancing reconciliation with First Nations communities and we fully support Peguis First Nation in its efforts to achieve economic independence,” Pallister said.  “The leadership of Peguis have shown they are committed to the responsible development of new economic opportunities for their people, and we are proud to work in partnership with them.”

The premier noted Manitoba is issuing a Crown Land Use Permit to provide Peguis with exclusive use for a quarry as part of its Treaty Land Entitlement (TLE) selection.  The provision of an exclusive use permit signifies the government’s commitment to have the Crown land advanced through the TLE land transfer process, toward the eventual establishment of the land as Peguis First Nation Reserve.   

“This is another opportunity for us to take control of our own destiny and work to ensure the long-term protection of our traditional lands and habitat,” said Chief Glenn Hudson, Peguis First Nation.  “We are always ready to look after our lands, and we welcome the opportunity for new economic growth and employment opportunities for our community.”

The premier also noted the province is working to help the First Nation assume certain management responsibilities within the Mantagao Lake Wildlife Management Area (WMA).  

Mantagao Lake WMA is approximately 50,000 hectares in size located about 230 kilometres north of Winnipeg, just northeast of Ashern, and includes a campground that Peguis is interested in managing.  With the establishment of a new WMA working group, the province will work with Peguis and other user groups to develop their plan for the campground and ensure it is compatible with the requirements of the WMA.

“I’d like to acknowledge the work that Chief Hudson and Peguis First Nation have done to secure this opportunity, and I look forward to the positive outcomes that will be gained as a result,” said Indigenous and Northern Relations Minister Eileen Clarke.  “This partnership will create growth for our future and economic development in the community.”

- 30 -