Discussion on Settlement of the Surrender Claim

The First Nation has obtained negotiation loan funding from Canada to offset the costs of negotiations and retained experienced legal counsel to assist in negotiations. After a period of organization, discussions between Canada and the First Nation are now underway. Canada and the First Nation concluded a protocol to guide their negotiations on claim compensation and related discussions on March 6, 2000. The required land appraisals and economic loss assessments will begin in September, 2001, and are scheduled for completion by October, 2002. In terms of the St. Peter’s Indian Reserve, Canada and the First Nation agree that third parties will not be dispossessed of the land they now occupy and own as a result of settlement. If St. Peter’s Reserve land is to be reacquired, it will be purchased based on a willing buyer/willing seller basis on the open market. Legal principles will be applied in determining fair and reasonable settlement compensation.