Gov't keeps treaty promise

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Indian Affairs Minsiter John Munro, Chief Leo Pretty Youngman and band members from Blackfoot Reserve at Gleichen, Alberta, signed an agreement April 6, for compensation of $1.675 million because of unkept obligations from a treaty signed over 104 years ago.

The federal government has agreed to give the band the financial compensation for cattle they did not receive along with other Treaty 7 bands over a century ago. At that time starvation, disease and seasonal hardships made it almost impossible for the Blackfoot to raise cattle.

Band Councillor Russell Wright said it took a lot of hard work to make the government agree to compensation.

"It has been a long struggle and a lot of research on the part of individuals. Also, it was considered a valid claim by the federal government and therefore accepted," said Wright.

Wright stated a positive approach must be taken toward the handling and investing of this money.

"There are many things we have to look at so our intentions are to go about it slowly. We have a cattle co-op here which is really a band-owned ranch. We also have the land and since the money was for cattle maybe we will expand the ranch and bring in more cattle.

"We have to build a real good positive project. Long term benefits and education for our people are some of the things we have to look at. However, at the moment we are biding our time," said Wright.

Chief Leo Pretty Youngman was unavailable for comment.