Nationtalk: CFNR News: Canada will pay the Metlakatla First Nation $150 million after breaching its fiduciary obligations relating to land surrendered over a century ago.

In 1906, the Nation surrendered portions of Kaien Island, Digby Island, and the Tsimpsean Peninsula to Ottawa. But, the Nation later discovered that Canada had breached their obligations by failing to obtain market value for the lands, and by selling those which had not been surrendered.

On September 5th, the Metlakatla Governing Council agreed to the $150 million specific claims settlement, which will arrive in the coming months.

A portion of the funds will then be distributed through a membership distribution, with funds for minors held in a trust until they turn 19.

What remains of the funding will be retained by the Council to be spent on benefits for members over time, with annual financial statements being posted.

By Jeff Blagden