Question Period Note: Restoule/Whitesand Litigation

• We believe the best way to resolve outstanding issues is through respectful and collaborative dialogue, which is vital to building stronger relationships and advancing reconciliation.
• This is why we offered to enter into negotiations with the Robinson-Huron and Robinson-Superior First Nations and the Government of Ontario to try to resolve the Restoule/Whitesand litigation outside of the courts.
• We look forward to continuing our work, together, in a spirit of reconciliation at the negotiation table to chart a new path forward based on our unique treaty relationship.

N / A

If pressed on Ontario’s appeal to the Supreme Court of Canada and/or their motion to seek a stay in the Stage 3 trial
• Canada has not appealed any of the Court decisions made in the ongoing Restoule/Whitesand litigation.
• Canada continues to believe that negotiations remain the best forum for addressing outstanding issues. We look forward to continuing to work with the Robinson-Huron and Robinson-Superior First Nations and the Government of Ontario to try to resolve the Restoule/Whitesand litigation outside of the courts.
If pressed on Ontario’s participation in an out-of-court settlement
• Given the Government of Ontario’s shared responsibility in implementing the Robinson Treaties, Canada recognizes that Ontario’s participation would be needed to conclude an out-of-court settlement of the Restoule/Whitesand litigation.

If pressed on the status of discussions with the First Nations and Ontario
• The Government of Canada is committed to advancing reconciliation and forging new relationships with First Nations based on the affirmation of rights, respect, cooperation and partnership. This includes honouring and implementing our treaty obligations and righting past wrongs.

• There is much work to be done requiring co-operation and partnership to advance these important discussions and map the way forward together toward a negotiated resolution.
• As these are confidential negotiations, we are not in a position to provide further details or comment further at this time.