Senators and Algonquin Anishinabe Nation announce partnership for ‘shared vision’ for LeBreton Flats

A rendering of an NHL arena on LeBreton Flats. (National Capital Commission)

The Ottawa Senators and the Algonquin Anishinabe Nation have announced they are working towards a “long-term economic partnership” as work continues to build a new NHL arena at LeBreton Flats.

Last August, the Senators and the National Capital Commission reached an agreement for the club to purchase approximately 11 acres of land at LeBreton Flats, where the Senators plan to build a new major event centre and arena district.

On Thursday, Senators Sports and Entertainment and The Algonquin Anishinabe Nation announced they are “working toward establishing a long-term economic partnership” that will be “based on a share vision” for LeBreton Flats.

“Through ongoing discussions, both parties have identified a strong alignment in their commitment to creating Ottawa–Gatineau’s next great gathering place – one that recognizes and honours the deep cultural and historical significance of these lands to the Algonquin Anishinabe Nation,” said a joint statement.

“This collaboration reflects a shared desire to bring communities together while respecting the history, identity, and future of the land. The Algonquin Anishinabe Nation and Capital Sports Development Inc. / Senators Sports & Entertainment look forward to continuing these conversations and building on this important relationship as plans for the site evolve.”

The statement says further details on the partnership will be released once a memorandum of understanding has been finalized.

The Algonquin Anishinabe Nation is comprised of the following 11 Algonquin Anishinabe First Nation communities from both sides of the Kichi Sibi (Ottawa River): Kitigan Zibi, Pikwàkanagàn, Abitibiwinni, Apitipi Anicinapek, Barriere Lake, Kebaowek, Kitcisakik, Lac Simon, Long Point, Timiskaming and Wolf Lake.

The Algonquins of Pikwàkanagàn First Nation said, “After many years of talks and negotiations, real progress is being made on one of the biggest partnerships ever created.”

“These achievements are the result of years of negotiation by a unified Algonquin negotiation team led by the Chiefs and Councillors of Pikwakanagan and the Algonquin First Nations in present day Quebec. Such a partnership with a professional hockey team could be the first of its kind for any First Nation in Canada,” the statement said.

“These business ventures are expected to provide significant revenue for Pikwakanagan as we develop those land parcels and link them to the Ottawa Sens business franchise. That revenue is forecasted to be substantial, ongoing and will provide much needed financial support for our own Algonquin self-determination and self-sufficiency.”

The 11 acres of land at LeBreton Flats for the arena is along Albert Street, between Preston Street and City Centre Avenue.

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