Question Period Note: Land Back

•The history of Canada is built on the legacy of colonization, the displacement of Indigenous Peoples from their homelands, and the dispossession of their lands which they hold sacred.

•Canada’s relationship with Indigenous Peoples started with land, our relationship was broken because of land, and it can only heal by placing land back at the center of reconciliation.

•In order to rebuild trust and to advance reconciliation, we must address the land – because the issues of the land are one cause of economic inequality for First Nations, Inuit and Métis.

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If pressed on Land back Canada

• The relationship Canada has with Indigenous Peoples started with land. Unfortunately, the trust has been broken because of land appropriation.

• It’s time to give land back. But this will not be an easy process. It will be complex, and sometimes take time but we must build trust, and go back to the negotiation tables in good faith.

• We are committed to addressing the longstanding and unresolved land issues so Canada can move forward and see our country going into the future.

If pressed on Additions to Reserve

• Our government remains steadfast in supporting First Nation communities in improving their land base, reducing infrastructure gaps, and contributing to their economic prosperity.

• That is why, since November 2015, 453 Additions to Reserve (ATRs) have been completed, adding over 266, 571 acres of land to reserve. Last fiscal year alone, 40 ATRs have been approved adding nearly 6,656 acres of land to reserve.

• We believe that First Nations know best what their priorities are. That is why we will continue working together, to benefit their communities and support their vision to enhance their land base.

If pressed on Specific Claims

• To date (from January 1, 2016 to July 31, 2023), our government has resolved 264 specific claims, for more than $8.9 billion in compensation. These settlement agreements include commitments to add up to 568, 271 acres of land to reserves throughout the country.

• Last fiscal year (from April 1, 2022 to March 31, 2023), 56 claims were resolved for $3.5 billion in compensation, and commitments to add up to 269,450 acres of land to reserves.

• We acknowledge Canada’s failure in respecting Indigenous Peoples’ rights and that trust was broken. We look forward to making further progress, restoring trust and strengthening relationships.