Some First Nations members upset at how RHT settlement funds are being shared

Protest about distribution of treaty settlement Some members of Atikameksheng Anishnawbek are upset about how the $10 billion Robinson Huron Treaty settlement is being distributed.

Some members of Atikameksheng Anishnawbek west of Sudbury are upset about how their chief and council plan to distribute their share of the $10 billion Robinson Huron Treaty settlement.

The group, calling itself Atikameksheng Strong, set up what it calls a peaceful assembly and information picket at the entrance to the First Nation on Tuesday.

"I don't recall us ever doing anything like this, mainly because, I guess we always tried to resolve our issues and talk with each other and come to some type of agreement," said former chief and community elder Gail Shawbonquit.

The protestors said the current chief and council isn’t listening to the community on the distribution of the First Nation’s portion of a settlement for past annuities under the Robinson Huron Treaty.

The first round of payments has started to flow, but the protestors said they want to be involved in future decisions about the next round.

"We can't vote on an important issue like this," Shawbonquit said.

"We can't have our say in how this how this money is going to be managed, how it's going to be dealt with and what is going to come to us."

"To be more included in what happens with the money," said Nicholas Smith-Nootchtai, an off-reserve member.

"We don't feel like … we don't even have a say in it. So yeah, I would like to see it distributed properly."

Chief Craig Nootchtai and council met Tuesday to discuss the situation in the community.

In an email, they said they recognize the group’s right to speak their mind and gather in a peaceful protest.

"We do not wish to impede their right to free speech, but we will ensure that all protesters adhere to the rules of the law," the email said.

However, public safety is the main priority.

"We are working with law enforcement to ensure the safety and well-being of all," it added.

The council added there will be a follow-up statement issued Wednesday to address the group’s demands.

In the meantime, Atikameksheng Strong said it will continue to hold its peaceful assembly 24/7 until council meets with them to discuss their demands.