Hearings into the interpretation of the Robinson-Huron Treaty and its $4 annuity payments are now underway.
Member First Nations of the Robinson-Huron Treaty hope to convince the courts that the treaty has to be dealt with under today’s terms and monetary status.
First Nations of the Robinson-Huron Treaty area filed the lawsuit against the governments of Canada and Ontario for failing to adhere to the terms of the 1850 treaty.
Hearings were held in Thunder Bay last week and in Little Current on Manitoulin Island all this week.
At the heart of the lawsuit is annuity payments, which First Nation leaders in the treaty area say have not been honoured.
The treaty promised an initial payment of $2 per individual, which would be increased based on the wealth generated by the land and resources.
The last increase was in 1874, doubled to $4.
The hearings return to Garden River next week where Chief Dean Sayers and Elders will give more evidence on the clan systems and governance relationships of the Anish leading up to treaty making.
The Robinson-Huron Treaty covers more than 37,500 square miles in Northeastern Ontario.
