Huskies men's hockey team claims 12th Canada West title
Mar 10, 2025
"All I've wanted since we won in 2020 was to be back here hoisting that cup again," said Justin Ball.
An agreement signed by Saskatchewan’s Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation (PBCN) and the federal government is being described as a historic victory.
The $630 million settlement is the latest in a series of agriculture benefit announcements in the province, including compensating 14 different Saskatchewan First Nations to the tune of $1.72 billion for longstanding claims.
Read more:
- Lac La Ronge Indian Band approves major settlement with federal govt.
- Government of Canada settles failed treaty promises in Saskatchewan
- Prince Albert continues down road to reconciliation with educational events
Under Treaty 6, the federal government was obligated to provide agricultural benefits to First Nations — a commitment that was never fulfilled.
In a news release from PBCN on March 14, the Nation said it was a promise that lingered in the background of its history, a missing piece in the foundation of their economic development.
On March 5, that missing piece was finally restored when Crown-Indigenous Relations Minister Gary Anandasangaree officially signed off on the $630 million settlement, acknowledging the long-overdue agricultural benefits owed to PBCN.
“This settlement is about more than just compensation — it’s about Canada honouring its treaty commitments,” said Chief Peter Beatty in the release.
“For generations, our people were promised agricultural benefits that were never delivered. Now, with this agreement in place, we can invest in our communities, create economic opportunities, and build a stronger future for the next generations. This is not just a win for our Nation, but a step toward reconciliation and fairness.”
The agriculture benefits are also known as ‘cows and plows’ — a slang term that former Treaty Commissioner of Saskatchewan Mary Musqua-Culbertson said should be avoided as it undermines the importance of upholding Treaty rights, because it was more than just a cow or a plow.
The Treaty agriculture benefit was intended for people to be able to participate in the economy of the day, which was farming. It would allow for land to be allocated and the provision of what a farmer needs to farm including seeds and equipment, the Office of the Treaty Commissioner says.
A landslide vote
Before the settlement could be finalized, PBCN members had the opportunity to review and vote on the agreement through a ratification process.
PBCN or Assin’skowitiniwak (“People of the Rocky Area”), has a rich history in northeastern Saskatchewan.
With over 13,000 members across nine communities spanning 51,000 square kilometres, PBCN is a cornerstone of the region. Its nine communities include Denare Beach, Deschaumbault Lake, Kinoosao, Pelican Narrows, Prince Albert, Sandy Bay, Southend, Sturgeon Landing, and Birch Portage.
The process included community meetings and information sessions. Voting occurred in two phases: Electronic voting from Jan. 19 to 22, 2025 and in-person voting on Jan. 24, 2025, at polling stations across PBCN communities.
On the day of the vote, PBCN members made their voices heard.
Of the 8,365 eligible voters, 5,573 cast their ballots, marking a 66.6 per cent voter turnout. The result was a landslide with 93 per cent voting in favour of the settlement.
The agreement is structured to ensure the funds are protected and used wisely. It includes financial compensation to address past injustices, a settlement trust to safeguard the funds for future generations, and a finance code to ensure transparency and responsible financial management.
With the settlement now officially approved, PBCN leadership will move forward with implementing the plan, ensuring the funds are used to strengthen the Nation’s future.
“This isn’t just about the past — it’s about what we do next,” said Chief Beatty. “This agreement gives us a chance to build up our communities, create new opportunities, and set up future generations for success.”
— with files by PANow’s Nigel Maxwell
Read more: