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VERNON, BRITISH COLUMBIA - Chief Dan Wilson of the Okanagan Indian Band and the Honourable Robert D. Nault, Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, today announced the settlement of an outstanding grievance dating back to 1881. The specific claim, known as the Boundary Claim, resulted from survey errors made in the 19th century concerning the boundaries of Okanagan Indian Reserve No. 1.

"This agreement represents a significant step forward for the Okanagan Indian Band," said Chief Wilson. "This agreement could not have been reached if not for the determination of our elected Chiefs and Councils over the past seventeen years. Our membership is also to be commended for ratifying this agreement as well as the purchase of Beau Park ranch."

"Negotiations on the Boundary Claim languished for years until Minister Nault got involved two summers ago," stated Chief Wilson. "At that time Minister Nault met with myself and the band council and promised to fast track our negotiations and get this matter resolved. So with respect to the Boundary Claim I am pleased to be able to thank Minister Nault for having delivered on his promise to us."

Under the agreement, the Okanagan Indian Band will be paid just over $6 million as a negotiated compensation figure. The agreement was ratified by First Nation members in a vote earlier this year.

"This settlement demonstrates that Canada and First Nations can work together successfully through good faith negotiations to put the injustices of the past behind us," said Minister Nault. "Not only will this settlement lead to a more positive relationship, it will create new economic opportunities for the Okanagan Indian Band that will benefit its community and the surrounding area."

Also present at the news conference was Senator Ross Fitzpatrick who played a key role in helping move the negotiations along. "I am extremely pleased by today's announcement as it demonstrates that long standing issues can be resolved through negotiation."

The Okanagan Indian Band is finalizing the purchase of land in the Beau Park area after its membership voted to allow the Chief and Council to use some of the settlement proceeds to purchase those lands. Under the terms of settlement and subject to Canada's Additions-to-Reserves Policy, the First Nation can request that these lands be added to its reserve.

The Okanagan Indian Band is located near Vernon and has approximately 1,650 members.