Kettle & Stony Point FN ratify the final settlement agreement for Camp Ipperwash
ADMINISTRATION OFFICE, Chippewas of Kettle and Stony Point First Nation (September 19, 2015) – The Chippewas of Kettle and Stony Point First Nation have ratified the Final Settlement Agreement negotiated with the federal government. Eligible voting members of the First Nation have voted on September 18, 2015 to accept the terms of the agreement which includes a financial settlement offer in excess of $90 million, but more importantly, also includes the return and cleanup of Stony Point lands.
“After 73 years, the war is finally over.” was the simple and heartfelt response of Chief Thomas Bressette when he received notification of the vote results. Reflecting upon the federal government’s 1942 appropriation of Stony Point lands under the War Measures Act; the continuous efforts of the First Nation to have the land rightfully returned; and the seemingly insurmountable government negotiations, Chief Thomas Bressette took a moment to appreciate what a significant milestone this is for the communities. “It has been a long and difficult process; yet our communities continued to work together for the return of Stony Point lands. Now that the negotiation process is complete, our First Nation can focus on healing, strengthening community relations and working cooperatively to fully implement all the terms of the agreement to bring resolution to what began in 1942.”
In recognition of the lengthy negotiation process, Chief Bressette went on to acknowledge the many individuals that contributed to the formation of the Final Settlement Agreement stating “On behalf of our First Nation, I want to thank the members of Band Council, community members, staff, special advisors, and the consulting firm, Ishkonigan for all your contributions to the process. Without all of you, our First Nation would not be celebrating the acceptance of this offer today.”
The Chippewas of Kettle and Stony Point First Nation is located along the shores of Lake Huron, 35 km northeast of Sarnia, Ontario. It has two land bases, one of which was the focus of a half century long land dispute that would have repercussions across the country.