“Strengthening our Nation through economic empowerment, strategic investment, and community-driven growth. We are committed to creating a diverse and sustainable economy that respects our land, supports our people, and secures long-term prosperity.”

On March 8, 2025, in Winnipeg, MB, the Treaty Land Entitlement Committee (TLEC) of Manitoba and the Honourable Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs and Minister responsible for the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, announced an advance payment of $210 Million as partial compensation for the losses caused by the Federal Government’s past failure to implement the 1997 Manitoba Framework Agreement Treaty Land Entitlement (TLE) in accordance with the honour of the Crown.

The failure to implement the Treaty Land Entitlement (TLE) framework has resulted in significant economic losses for our Nation, as we have been unable to access lands that are rightfully ours under Treaty #5. These lands hold immense potential for economic ventures and opportunities that could generate substantial financial benefits. Such gains would empower our Nation to make critical investments in local infrastructure, social supports, community initiatives, and development projects. Addressing this failure is essential not only for taking the right steps to correct historical injustices that have resulted in economic harm but also for enabling our Nation to achieve sustainable growth and prosperity for future generations.

This advance payment follows years of negotiations between the TLEC Entitlement First Nations and Canada. All parties have come to an agreement on the core elements of a potential final settlement of the TLEC Entitlement First Nations multi-billion dollar loss-of-use claim. These elements are key in the final settlement and will still take some time, but in spirit of reconciliation and maintaining relationships with the Entitlement First Nations, Canada has agreed to an initial smaller advance payment.

Norway House Cree Nation is set to receive $32 million as part of the advance payment. This allocation is determined using a formula originally proposed by our Nation and supported by the majority of the 14 Entitlement First Nations. The payment represents a crucial step in addressing historical treaty obligations and advancing reconciliation efforts, reflecting the strength of collaboration among the Entitlement First Nations.

The TLE settlement represents a significant step toward economic justice for Norway House Cree Nation. This settlement is not just about compensation, it is about investing in the future of our Nation, creating new opportunities, and ensuring long-term prosperity for our people. This advance payment allows our Nation to take the necessary steps to prepare for the larger settlement.

NHCN Chief and Council ratified a 5-Year Economic Development Strategic Plan on April 4, 2023, to establish clear priorities for economic self-sufficiency and long-term prosperity. The strategic plan had input from members of NHCN, this input was gathered through means of community engagement sessions. Over the past year and a half, Norway House has been actively implementing this strategy, creating new opportunities and improving economic conditions for our people. A strategic approach is critical to economic growth.

The TLE settlement provides a critical opportunity to accelerate progress on the Strategic Goals outlined in our 5-Year Economic Development Strategic Plan. Norway House is directing these funds toward initiatives that align with the economic vision previously ratified by Chief and Council, ensuring that economic growth strengthens our Nation for generations to come. These investments will strengthen the Nation’s economic foundation, support self-sufficiency, and create lasting benefits for all members.

Strategic Goals and Investment Priorities:

1.     Building a Skilled and Professional Workforce

Norway House will invest in education, training, and workforce development to strengthen skills across all sectors. This includes funding certification programs, expanding access to post-secondary and trades education, creating new job opportunities, and supporting career advancement for members. These investments will ensure a trained workforce that can support the Nation’s economic growth.

2.     Strengthening the Local Economy and Increasing Own-Source Revenue

To foster economic self-sufficiency, investments will be made to support existing businesses, provide resources for local entrepreneurs, and attract industries that create sustainable jobs. Investments will also be made in revenue-generating ventures, ensuring that the Nation retains wealth within the community and reduces dependency on external funding.

3.     Developing Enabling Infrastructure

A portion of the settlement will be allocated to critical infrastructure projects, including housing for our members, water and sewer systems, road infrastructure, transportation networks, and utilities. These investments will improve living conditions, support economic activities, and create a strong foundation for future development.

4.     Enhancing Community Well-being and Resilience

Economic growth must benefit all members equitably. Norway House will invest in initiatives that support youth engagement, skills training, and retraining programs for members looking to transition into new careers. Additional support will be provided for higher education, ensuring that more members can access post-secondary opportunities that align with the Nation’s economic vision.

5.     Positioning Norway House as the Economic Hub of the North

Norway House will leverage the TLE settlement to position itself as a regional economic leader. Investments will focus on regional planning to ensure that development efforts are aligned with broader regional goals, lobbying and coordinating with all levels of government and industry, and developing businesses that provide essential services to surrounding communities. By acting strategically, the Nation will create new revenue streams and expand economic opportunities for our people.

How we use these funds today will shape the future of our Nation. This investment is a stepping stone, preparing our people for the larger settlement we anticipate and ensuring we are ready to create lasting opportunities, economic strength, and prosperity for the future generations of our community.