April 13, 2018
(Winnipeg, MB) – Assembly of First Nations (AFN) Manitoba Regional Chief Kevin Hart attended the April 10 announcement of the Agreement in Principle between Treaty 1 First Nations and the Government of Canada for the Kapyong Barracks land in Winnipeg, MB.
“I commend the leadership of Treaty 1 for their diligence and determination in pursuing this Agreement in Principle,” said Regional Chief Hart. “It took many years and there were times when they had to fight the federal government in court, but they stood strong and now we see their success. This is a positive outcome that benefits everyone, not just First Nations but the city and the province as well. We congratulate the leaders and citizens of Treaty 1 and stand with them as they continue their journey towards a Final Agreement.”
Kapyong Barrack in Winnipeg was abandoned in 2004 when the 2nd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry moved from the military base near Kenaston and Grant to the Canadian Forces Base in Shilo, Manitoba. The Canadian Forces then declared the site a surplus and the Federal Treasury Board tried to sell it to a Crown Corporation. This decision was challenged in court by Treaty 1 First Nations, stating it was outstanding Treaty Land Entitlement claims which meant they had the right to the site. Treaty 1 First nations prevailed and achieved the Agreement in Principle, and will now work towards a Final Agreement.
The AFN is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada. Follow AFN on Twitter @AFN_Updates.
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