Completed Mediations – Reports Released

01/02/2003

Kahkewistahaw First Nation [Mediation Report - 1907 Surrender] - February 2003

This claim resulted from the 1907 surrender of 33,281 acres – nearly three-quarters – of the Kahkewistahaw First Nation’s reserve. The 13,535 acres left to the Band after the surrender were unsuitable for cultivation. The claim has been in negotiation since late 1998, considerable time being spent completing the land appraisals and loss-of-use studies. In addition to acting as facilitator/mediator for the negotiations, the Commission also acted as study coordinator. The loss-of-use studies formed the basis for a negotiated settlement agreement. By the end of the 2001-2002 fiscal year, Canada had received its mandate and made a formal offer to the First Nation, which was accepted. During 2002-2003, work has focussed on drafting and finalizing the settlement and trust agreements. In November 2002, the community voted to ratify these agreements. The date for a signing ceremony has yet to be established.