Feds' argument over $5 treaty payments 'disgraceful' tactic to delay lawsuit: plaintiffs

Chief Derek Nepinak of Minegoziibe Anishinabe First Nation, a community located in west-central Manitoba, filed an amended class-action lawsuit against the federal government in May of last year. Chief Lynn Acoose of Zagime Anishinabek in south-eastern Saskatchewan is also a plaintiff.

The statement of claim alleges Canada violated treaty agreements by not increasing $5 annuity payments to treaty members to account for inflation, a payment the plaintiff says was meant to provide purchasing power for essentials amid the shifting economic landscape in 1874.

The federal government argued in a statement of defence they are not liable for any damages, and only owe the annuity obligation of $5 per treaty member specifically written in the Treaty 4 text.