May 16, 2024 — Wendake, Quebec — Huron-Wendat Nation and Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada

First Nations partners are active in the effort to chart a new way forward with the Government of Canada to build renewed nation-to-nation relationships based on the affirmation of rights, respect, cooperation and partnership. Critical to repairing and renewing these relationships are efforts to address past wrongs and resolve historical grievances like those faced by the Huron-Wendat Nation.

Today, Rémy Vincent, Grand Chief of the Huron-Wendat Nation, and the Honourable Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, announced that the Huron-Wendat Nation and the Government of Canada have reached a settlement agreement on the Rockmont Reserve claim. In 1904, more than 9,000 acres—or nearly 30 square kilometres—of the Nation’s reserve land was illegally surrendered, about 80 kilometres north of Quebec City. The Rockmont Reserve lands were sold for $7,501. With the loss of this land, the members of the Huron-Wendat Nation lost economic opportunities from forestry and hunting and fishing trades, as well as a space to practice traditional activities on the land. In the surrender, the Government of Canada broke promises made to the Nation and the settlement today represents a renewed commitment to honour our obligations. The Nation will receive close to $149 million in compensation from Canada along with an option to acquire up to 9,600 acres of land by mutual agreement, that is, where sellers are willing and apply to have it set aside as a reserve.

The successful resolution of grievances brought by Indigenous communities is a key part of reconciliation—one that acknowledges and addresses the wrongs of the past and helps to build a better future for everyone in Canada.