The treaties between the Crown and First Nations in Manitoba provided for the annual payment of $5 to each individual who is a member of a First Nation band that was signatory to the Treaty. Treaty payments are a reaffirmation that the treaty relationship between Canada and First Nation people is alive and continues to form the foundation of our ongoing relationship.
Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada Manitoba Region and Parks Canada have worked together since 2003 to deliver treaty payments at the Forks National Historic Site in Winnipeg.
Numbered Treaties in Manitoba made between 1871 and 1908 cover the entire province. Approximately 147,770 registered First Nation people are eligible to receive treaty payments in 2014. The Forks is part of Treaty One territory. Lower Fort Garry National Historic Site was the site where this treaty was made. Parks Canada commemorates Treaty One at the fort and creates learning opportunities for the public to increase their understanding of the significance of the treaties to all Canadians.
While Urban Treaty Days at the Forks occur from June 10 to 26, 2014, treaty payments are also being delivered in many First Nation communities throughout Manitoba. Federal public servants travel to communities to deliver treaty payments on behalf of Canada. Historically, the RCMP have been considered by First Nations to be fair and just representatives of Canada and they continue to participate in treaty payments on a ceremonial basis.
