An agreement in principle has been signed involving the Algonquins of Ontario and the federal and provincial governments.
It’s a step toward resolving a centuries-old land claim that covers about 36-thousand square kilometres of land — east of North Bay through Eastern Ontario.
Officials say the non-binding agreement in principle paves the way for continued negotiations toward a final agreement.
Meantime, Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief Patrick Madahbee is congratulating the Algonquins of Ontario for signing the historic Agreement-in-Principle.
“I congratulate the Algonquins on this historical signing and accomplishment,” expressed Madahbee on the monumental achievement. “These negotiations were exhausting and lengthy for all parties involved.”
Quick Facts
– The Agreement-in-Principle was shaped by consultations with the ten Algonquins of Ontario communities, other Indigenous groups and the public. This important dialogue will continue during the negotiations toward a Final Agreement.
– The Agreement-in-Principle sets out the main elements of a potential settlement, including that the Algonquins of Ontario would receive $300 million in capital funding from Canada and Ontario and approximately but not less than 117,500 acres of provincial Crown lands would be transferred to Algonquin ownership.
– If the negotiators are successful in achieving a Final Agreement, it will need to be approved by the Algonquins of Ontario voters in a ratification vote and then by the Ontario Legislature and Parliament of Canada.
– No privately-owned land will be taken away from anyone to settle the claim and no one will lose access to their private property.
-Algonquin Park will remain a park for the enjoyment of all.