Question Period Note: Litigation - Treaty Annuity Indexation

N.A.

• Several First Nations have brought litigation seeking compensation related to the indexation of annuity payments under the Numbered Treaties.
• The Government of Canada is committed to renewing relationships with Indigenous peoples to advance our shared priorities, including a path forward to self-determination.
• Honouring treaty relationships and working together in partnership are key to advancing reconciliation.

N.A.

If pressed on Treaty 8 or other annuities settlements
• The issue of Treaty annuities has been raised both in and out of the courts.
• We recognize that more needs to be done in renewing the Treaty relationship and we remain open to looking at ways to advance this important work with our Treaty First Nation partners.
• While this work is ongoing, Treaty annuity payment amounts will remain the same and payments will continue to be made in keeping with the current processes.
• Any negotiations with First Nations are confidential, and we are therefore not in a position to comment further at this time. If pressed on the Nelson Treaty 1 annuity trial underway
• The Government of Canada recognizes its ongoing obligations to uphold Treaty rights.
• The Zongidaya Nelson litigation concerning Treaty 1 annuities was filed in 2019. The trial concluded on February 27, 2026.
• We do yet not know when the court will issue its decision. If pressed on whether to negotiate Treaty annuities with Numbered Treaty First Nations as Canada is doing with Ontario and the Robinson Huron and Robinson Superior Treaty First Nations
• Honouring the Treaty relationship and working together in partnership with First Nations is key to advancing lasting reconciliation.
• The Government of Canada welcomed the Supreme Court of Canada’s decision, which provided clarity on the Treaty promise made in the Robinson Treaties of 1850.
• Next steps on Treaty annuities will be informed by future decisions of the courts.