Chief Peter Beatty with members of PBCN executive. (Submitted/Tina Pelletier)

By Nigel Maxwell

Treaty rights

PBCN ‘cows and plows’ settlement worth $630 million

Mar 15, 2025 | 10:15 AM

An agreement signed by Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation (PBCN) and the federal government is being described as a historic victory.

The $630 million settlement is the latest in a series of announcements that have been occurring across the province.

Under Treaty 6, the federal government was obligated to provide agricultural benefits to First Nations—a commitment that was never fulfilled. It was a promise that lingered in the background of the Nation’s history, a missing piece in the foundation of their economic development.

On March 5, that missing piece was finally restored when Crown-Indigenous Relations Minister Gary Anandasangaree officially signed off on the $630 million settlement, acknowledging the long-overdue agricultural benefits owed to PBCN.

“This settlement is about more than just compensation—it’s about Canada honouring its treaty commitments,” said Chief Peter Beatty. “For generations, our people were promised agricultural benefits that were never delivered. Now, with this agreement in place, we can invest in our communities, create economic opportunities, and build a stronger future for the next generations. This is not just a win for our Nation, but a step toward reconciliation and fairness.”

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Before the settlement could be finalized, PBCN members had the opportunity to review and vote on the agreement through a ratification process.

The process included community meetings and information sessions. Voting occurred in two phases: electronic voting from Jan. 19 to 22, 2025, and in-person voting on Jan. 24, 2025, at polling stations across PBCN communities.

On the day of the vote, PBCN members made their voices heard. Of the 8,365 eligible voters, 5,573 cast their ballots, marking a 66.6 per cent voter turnout. The result was a landslide with 93 per cent voting in favour of the settlement.

The agreement is structured to ensure the funds are protected and used wisely. It includes financial compensation to address past injustices, a settlement trust to safeguard the funds for future generations, and a finance code to ensure transparency and responsible financial management.

With the settlement now officially approved, PBCN leadership will move forward with implementing the plan, ensuring the funds are used to strengthen the Nation’s future.

“This isn’t just about the past—it’s about what we do next,” said Chief Beatty. “This agreement gives us a chance to build up our communities, create new opportunities, and set up future generations for success.”

More explanation of agricultural benefits promised in some of the Treaties can be found at the website of the Office of the Treaty Commissioner.

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nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On Blue Sky: @nigelmaxwell.bsky.social