Treaties 1 Placeholder – Over the past two weeks, healthcare in the province of Saskatchewan has been a major topic of political discussion and public attention. Provincial leaders, healthcare workers, and opposition parties have all weighed in on the state of the system, particularly regarding staffing shortages, wait times, and access to care. The most significant development during this period has been the announcement of a new provincial strategy intended to improve healthcare services across Saskatchewan.

In early March 2026, the Saskatchewan government introduced a new initiative called the “Patients First Health Care Plan.” Premier Scott Moe and Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill stated that the plan aims to improve access to medical services and address ongoing pressures in the provincial healthcare system. The strategy includes investments in staffing, expanded training programs, and the development of new healthcare facilities and services. According to government statements, the plan is designed to ensure patients receive the “right care at the right place at the right time.”

One of the key elements of the plan is the expansion of urgent care centres across the province. Facilities already exist or are being developed in major cities such as Regina and Saskatoon, and additional centres are expected in communities such as Prince Albert and North Battleford. These centres are intended to treat non-life-threatening conditions and reduce the pressure on hospital emergency departments, which have faced crowding and long wait times in recent years.

Another major component of the provincial plan focuses on reducing wait times for medical procedures. The government has set targets to reduce surgical wait times to approximately three months and diagnostic testing wait times to about two months by 2028. To help meet these goals, Saskatchewan plans to expand diagnostic services and allow more publicly funded surgeries to take place in private surgical clinics. Supporters argue that these changes could speed up treatment, while critics worry about the increasing role of private facilities in the healthcare system.

Despite the new announcements, healthcare remains politically contentious in Saskatchewan. Opposition parties argue that many of the current problems in the healthcare system—such as shortages of doctors and nurses—have existed for years and require deeper structural solutions. Critics also note that a significant number of residents still lack access to a family physician, with some estimates suggesting that hundreds of thousands of people in the province may not have a regular primary-care provider.

In addition to workforce shortages, hospital capacity remains a concern. Reports continue to highlight situations in which patients are treated in hallways or waiting rooms due to a lack of available beds in major hospitals. Rural communities have also experienced disruptions in services when emergency departments temporarily close because staff are unavailable. These issues have contributed to public frustration and ongoing debate about the direction of healthcare policy in the province.

The provincial government has emphasized that recruitment and training are central to solving these challenges. Efforts include expanding medical and nursing education opportunities, hiring additional healthcare workers, and introducing new care models such as virtual healthcare visits. These digital consultations could improve access for residents in rural and remote communities, where finding a local physician can be particularly difficult.

Overall, the past two weeks have highlighted both the challenges and the reform efforts within Saskatchewan’s healthcare system. The new “Patients First” strategy represents the government’s attempt to address longstanding concerns about access, staffing, and wait times. However, debates about how best to strengthen the healthcare system—particularly regarding workforce shortages and the use of private clinics—are likely to continue as the plan moves forward.MENU
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Treaty Texts – Treaties No. 1 and No. 2
Treaties 1 and 2 Between Her Majesty The Queen and the Chippewa
and Cree Indians of Manitoba and Country Adjacent with Adhesions
LAYOUT IS NOT EXACTLY LIKE ORIGINAL
TRANSCRIBED FROM:
EDMOND CLOUTIER, C.M.G., O.A., D.S.P. QUEEN’S PRINTER AND CONTROLLER OF STATIONERY OTTAWA, 1957
92099-1
Treaty No. 1
ARTICLES OF A TREATY made and concluded this third day of August in the year of Our Lord one thousand eight hundred
and seventy-one, between Her Most Gracious Majesty the Queen of Great Britain and Ireland by Her Commissioner,
Wemyss M. Simpson, Esquire, of the one part, and the Chippewa and Swampy Cree Tribes of Indians, inhabitants of the
country within the limits hereinafter defined and described, by their Chiefs chosen and named as hereinafter mentioned,
of the other part.
Whereas all the Indians inhabiting the said country have pursuant to an appointment made by the said Commissioner,
been convened at a meeting at the Stone Fort, otherwise called Lower Fort Garry, to deliberate upon certain matters of
interest to Her Most Gracious Majesty, of the one part, and to the said Indians of the other, and whereas the said Indians
have been notified and informed by Her Majesty’s said Commissioner that it is the desire of Her Majesty to open up to
settlement and immigration a tract of country bounded and described as hereinafter mentioned, and to obtain the
consent thereto of her Indian subjects inhabiting the said tract, and to make a treaty and arrangements with them so
that there may be peace and good will between them and Her Majesty, and that they may know and be assured of what
allowance they are to count upon and receive year by year from Her Majesty’s bounty and benevolence.
And whereas the Indians of the said tract, duly convened in council as aforesaid, and being requested by Her Majesty’s
said Commissioner to name certain Chiefs and Headmen who should be authorized on their behalf to conduct such
negotiations and sign any treaty to be founded thereon, and to become responsible to Her Majesty for the faithful
performance by their respective bands of such obligations as should be assumed by them, the said Indians have
thereupon named the following persons for that purpose, that is to say:
Mis-koo-kenew or Red Eagle (Henry Prince), Ka-ke-ka-penais, or Bird for ever, Na-sha-ke-penais, or Flying down bird, Na-
na-wa-nanaw, or Centre of Bird’s Tail, Ke-we-tayash, or Flying round, Wa-ko-wush, or Whip-poor-will, Oo-za-we-kwun, or
Yellow Quill,—and thereupon in open council the different bands have presented their respective Chiefs to His Excellency
the Lieutenant Governor of the Province of Manitoba and of the North-West Territory being present at such council, and
to the said Commissioner, as the Chiefs and Headman for the purposes aforesaid of the respective bands of Indians
inhabiting the said district hereinafter described; and whereas the said Lieutenant Governor and the said Commissioner
then and there received and acknowledged the persons so presented as Chiefs and Headmen for the purpose aforesaid;
and whereas the said Commissioner has proceeded to negotiate a treaty with the said Indians, and the same has finally
been agreed upon and concluded as follows, that is to say:
The Chippewa and Swampy Cree Tribes of Indians and all other the Indians inhabiting the district hereinafter described
and defined do hereby cede, release, surrender and yield up to Her Majesty the Queen and successors forever all the
lands included within the following limits, that is to say: Beginning at the international boundary line near its junction
with the Lake of the Woods, at a point due north from the centre of Roseau Lake; thence to run due north to the centre of
Roseau Lake; thence northward to the centre of White Mouth Lake, otherwise called White Mud Lake; thence by the
middle of the lake and the middle of the river issuing therefrom to the mouth thereof in Winnipeg River; thence by the
Winnipeg River to its mouth; thence westwardly, including all the islands near the south end of the lake, across the lake
to the mouth of Drunken River; thence westwardly to a point on Lake Manitoba half way between Oak Point and the
mouth of Swan Creek; thence across Lake Manitoba in a line due west to its western shore; thence in a straight line to the
crossing of the rapids on the Assiniboine; thence due south to the international boundary line; and thence eastwardly by
the said line to the place of beginning. To have and to hold the same to Her said Majesty the Queen and Her successors
for ever; and Her Majesty the Queen hereby agrees and undertakes to lay aside and reserve for the sole and exclusive
use of the Indians the following tracts of land, that is to say: For the use of the Indians belonging to the band of which
Henry Prince, otherwise called Mis-koo-ke-new is the Chief, so much of land on both sides of the Red River, beginning at
the south line of St. Peter’s Parish, as will furnish one hundred and sixty acres for each family of five, or in that proportion
for larger or smaller families; and for the use of the Indians of whom Na-sha-ke-penais, Na-na-wa-nanaw, Ke-we-tayash
and Wa-ko-wush are the Chiefs, so much land on the Roseau River as will furnish one hundred and sixty acres for each
family of five, or in that proportion for larger or smaller families, beginning from the mouth of the river; and for the use
of the Indians of which Ka-ke-ka-penais is the Chief, so much land on the Winnipeg River above Fort Alexander as will
furnish one hundred and sixty acres for each family of five, or in that proportion for larger or smaller families, beginning
at a distance of a mile or thereabout above the Fort; and for the use of the Indians of whom Oo-za-we-kwun is Chief, so
much land on the south and east side of the Assiniboine, about twenty miles above the Portage, as will furnish one
hundred and sixty acres for each family of five, or in that proportion for larger or smaller families, reserving also a further
tract enclosing said reserve to comprise an equivalent to twenty-five square miles of equal breadth, to be laid out round
the reserve, it being understood, however, that if, at the date of the execution of this treaty, there are any settlers within
the bounds of any lands reserved by any band, Her Majesty reserves the right to deal with such settlers as She shall deem
just, so as not to diminish the extent of land allotted to the Indians.
And with a view to show the satisfaction of Her Majesty with the behaviour and good conduct of Her Indians parties to
this treaty, She hereby, through Her Commissioner, makes them a present of three dollars for each Indian man, woman
and child belonging to the bands here represented.
And further, Her Majesty agrees to maintain a school on each reserve hereby made whenever the Indians of the reserve
should desire it.
Within the boundary of Indian reserves, until otherwise enacted by the proper legislative authority, no intoxicating liquor
shall be allowed to be introduced or sold, and all laws now in force or hereafter to be enacted to preserve Her Majesty’s
Indian subjects inhabiting the reserves or living elsewhere from the evil influence of the use of intoxicating liquors shall
be strictly enforced.
Her Majesty’s Commissioner shall, as soon as possible after the execution of this treaty, cause to be taken an accurate
census of all the Indians inhabiting the district above described, distributing them in families, and shall in every year
ensuing the date hereof, at some period during the month of July in each year, to be duly notified to the Indians and at or
near their respective reserves, pay to each Indian family of five persons the sum of fifteen dollars Canadian currency, or
in like proportion for a larger or smaller family, such payment to be made in such articles as the Indians shall require of
blankets, clothing, prints (assorted colours), twine or traps, at the current cost price in Montreal, or otherwise, if Her
Majesty shall deem the same desirable in the interests of Her Indian people, in cash.
And the undersigned Chiefs do hereby bind and pledge themselves and their people strictly to observe this treaty and to
maintain perpetual peace between themselves and Her Majesty’s white subjects, and not to interfere with the property
or in any way molest the persons of Her Majesty’s white or other subjects.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Her Majesty’s said Commissioner and the said Indian Chiefs have hereunto subscribed and set
their hand and seal at Lower Fort Garry, this day and year herein first above named.
MEMORANDUM OF THINGS OUTSIDE OF THE TREATY WHICH
WERE PROMISED AT THE TREATY AT THE LOWER FORT
SIGNED THE THIRD DAY OF AUGUST, A.D. 1871
MÉMOIRE DE DIFFéRENTS ARTICLES, QUI N’ONT PAS ÉTÉ MENTIONNÉS DANS LE TRAITÉ, MAIS, QUI ONT ÉTÉ PROMIS
LORS DU TRAITÉ CONCLU AU FORT D’EN BAS – LOWER FORT – LE 3 JOUR D’AOÛT, A.D. 1871: –
For each Chief who signed the treaty, a dress distinguishing him as Chief.
For braves and for councillors of each Chief a dress; it being supposed that the braves and councillors will be two for each
Chief.
For each Chief, except Yellow Quill, a buggy.
For the braves and councillors of each Chief, except Yellow Quill, a buggy.
In lieu of a yoke of oxen for each reserve, a bull for each, and a cow for each Chief; a boar for each reserve and a sow for
each Chief, and a male and female of each kind of animal raised by farmers, these when the Indians are prepared to
receive them.
A plough and a harrow for each settler cultivating the ground.
These animals and their issue to be Government property, but to be allowed for the use of the Indians, under the
superintendence and control of the Indian Commissioner.
The buggies to be the property of the Indians to whom they are given.
The above contains an inventory of the terms concluded with the Indians.
Wemyss M. Simpson,
Molyneux St. John,
A.G. Archibald,
Jas. McKay.
COPY OF A REPORT OF A COMMITTE OF THE HONOURABLE THE
PRIVY COUCIL,
APPROUVED BY HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOUVERNOR GENERAL IN
COUNCIL ON
THE 30TH APRIL, 1875
Dans un mémoire de l’honorable ministre de l’Intérieur en date du 27 avril 1875 signalant la très grande insatisfaction
des Indiens à l’égard des «promesses ultérieures» aux traités n 1 et 2 conclus avec les Indiens du Manitoba et des
Territoires du Nord-Ouest les 3 et 21 août 1871 respectivement, et faisant les recommandations suivantes:
On a memorandum dated 27th April, 1875, from the Honourable the Minister of the Interior, bringing under
consideration the very unsatisfactory state of affairs arising out of the so-called “outside promises” in connection with
the Indian Treaties Nos. 1 and 2, Manitoba and North-west Territories, concluded, the former on the 3rd August, 1871,
and the latter on 21st of the same month, and recommending for the reasons stated:
1st. That the written memorandum attached to Treaty No. 1 be considered as part of that Treaty and of Treaty No. 2, and
that the Indian Commissioner be instructed to carry out the promises therein contained, in so far as they have not yet
been carried out, and that the Commissioner be advised to inform the Indians that he has been authorized so to do.
2nd. That the Indian Commissioner be instructed to inform the Indians, parties to Treaties Nos. 1 and 2, that, while the
Government cannot admit their claim to any thing which is not set forth in the treaty, and in the memorandum attached
thereto, which treaty is binding alike upon the Government and upon the Indians, yet, as there seems to have been some
misunderstanding between the Indian Commissioner and the Indians in the matter of Treaties Nos. 1 and 2, the
Government, out of good feeling to the Indians and as a matter of benevolence, is willing to raise the annual payment to
each Indian under Treaties Nos. 1 and 2, from $3 to $5 per annum, and make payment over and above such sum of $5, of
$20 each and every year to each Chief, and a suit of clothing every three years to each Chief and each Headman, allowing
two Headmen to each band, on the express understanding, however, that each Chief or other Indian who shall receive
such increased annuity or annual payment shall be held to abandon all claim whatever against the Government in
connection with the so-called “outside promises,” other than those contained in the memorandum attached to the treaty
The Committee submit the foregoing recommendation for Your Excellency’s approval:
W.A. HIMSWORTH,
Clerk Privy Council.
Certified,
W.A. HIMSWORTH,
Clerk Privy Council.
We, the undersigned Chiefs and Headmen of Indian bands, representing bands of Indians who were parties to the
Treaties Nos. 1 and 2, mentioned in the report of the Committee of the Queen’s Privy Council of Canada, above printed,
having had communication thereof, and fully understanding the same assent thereto and accept the increase of
annuities therein mentioned, on the condition therein stated, and with the assent and approval of their several bands, it
being agreed, however, with the Queen’s Commissioners, that the number of braves and councillors for each Chief shall
be four, as at present, instead of two, as printed 1875.
No. 124
We, the undersigned Chiefs and Headmen of Indian bands representing bands of Indians who were parties to the
Treaties Nos. 1 and 2, mentioned in the report of a Committee of the Queen’s Privy Council of Canada, “as printed on the
other side of this parchment,” having had communication thereof and fully understanding the same, assent thereto and
accept the increase of annuities therein mentioned on the condition therein stated, and with the assent and approval of
their several bands, it being agreed, however, with the Queen’s Commissioners, that the number of braves and
councillors for each Chief shall be four, as at present, instead of two, as printed 1875.
No 124
We the undersigned Chiefs and Headmen of Indian bands representing bands of Indians who were parties to the
Treaties Nos. 1 and 2 mentioned in the report of a Committee of the Queen’s Privy Council of Canada, as printed on the
other side of this sheet, having had communication thereof and full understanding of the same, assent thereto and
accept the increase of annuities therein mentioned, on the condition therein stated, and with the assent and approval of
their several bands, it being agreed, however, with the Queen’s Commissioners, that the number of braves and
councillors for each Chief shall be four, as at present, instead of two, as printed.
Treaty No. 2
ARTICLES OF TREATY made and concluded this twenty-first day of August, in the year of Our Lord one thousand eight
hundred and seventy-one, between Her Most Gracious Majesty the Queen of Great Britain and Ireland, by Her
Commissioner Wemyss M. Simpson, Esquire, of the one part, and the Chippewa Tribe of Indians, inhabitants of the
country within the limits hereinafter defined and described, by their Chiefs chosen and named as hereinafter mentioned,
of the other part.
Whereas, all the Indians inhabiting the said country have, pursuant to an appointment made by the said Commissioner,
been convened at a meeting at Manitoba Post to deliberate upon certain matters of interest to Her Most Gracious
Majesty, of the one part, and to the said Indians of the other; and whereas the said Indians have been notified and
informed by Her Majesty’s said Commissioner that it is the desire of Her Majesty to open up to settlement and
immigration a tract of country bounded and described as hereinafter mentioned and to obtain the consent thereto of her
Indian subjects inhabiting the said tract, and to make a treaty and arrangement with them, so that there may be peace
and good will between them and Her Majesty and that they may know and be assured of what allowance they are to
count upon and receive from Her Majesty’s bounty and benevolence.
And whereas the Indians of the said tract, duly convened in council as aforesaid, and being requested by Her Majesty’s
said Commissioner to name certain Chiefs and Headmen who should be authorized on their behalf to conduct such
negotiations and sign any treaty to be founded thereon, and to become responsible to Her Majesty for the faithful
performance by their respective bands of such obligations as shall be assumed by them, the said Indians have thereupon
named the following persons for that purpose, that is to say:
For the Swan Creek and Lake Manitoba Indians, Sou-sonse or Little Long Ears; for the Indians of Fairford and the
neighboring localities, Ma-sah-kee-yash or “He who flies to the bottom,” and Richard Woodhouse, whose Indian name is
Ke-wee-tah-quun-na-yash or “He who flies round the feathers;” for the Indians of Waterhen River and Crane River and
the neighboring localities, Francois, or Broken Fingers; and for the Indians of Riding Mountains and Dauphin Lake and
the remainder of the territory hereby ceded, Mekis (the Eagle), or Giroux.
And, thereupon, in open council the different bands have presented their respective Chiefs to His Excellency the
Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba and of the North-west Territory being present at such council and to the said
Commissioner, as the Chiefs and Headmen, for the purposes aforesaid, of the respective bands of Indians inhabiting the
said district hereinafter described; and whereas the said Lieutenant Governor and the said Commissioner then and there
received and acknowledged the persons so presented as Chiefs and Headmen for the purposes aforesaid of the
respective bands of Indians inhabiting the said district hereinafter described; and whereas the said Commissioner has
proceeded to negotiate a treaty with the said Indians, and the same has finally been agreed upon and concluded, as
follows, that is to say:
The Chippewa Tribe of Indians and all other the Indians inhabiting the district hereinafter described and defined do
hereby cede, release, surrender and yield up to Her Majesty the Queen, and Her successors forever, all the lands included
within the following limits, that is to say:
All that tract of country lying partly to the north and partly to the west of a tract of land ceded to Her Majesty the Queen
by the Indians inhabiting the Province of Manitoba, and certain adjacent localities, under the terms of a treaty made at
Lower Fort Garry on the third day of August last past, the land now intended to be ceded and surrendered being
particularly described as follows, that is to say: Beginning at the mouth of Winnipeg River, on the north line of the lands
ceded by said treaty; thence running along the eastern shore of Lake Winnipeg northwardly as far as the mouth of
Beren’s River; thence across said lake to its western shore, at the north bank of the mouth of the Little Saskatchewan or
Dauphin River; thence up said stream and along the northern and western shores thereof, and of St. Martin’s Lake, and
along the north bank of the stream flowing into St. Martin’s Lake from Lake Manitoba by the general course of such
stream to such last-mentioned lake; thence by the eastern and northern shores of Lake Manitoba to the mouth of the
Waterhen River; thence by the eastern and northern shores of said river up stream to the northernmost extremity of a
small lake known as Waterhen Lake; thence in a line due west to and across lake Winnepegosis; thence in a straight line
to the most northerly waters forming the source of the Shell River; thence to a point west of the same two miles distant
from the river, measuring at right angles thereto; thence by a line parallel with the Shell River to its mouth, and thence
crossing the Assiniboine River and running parallel thereto and two miles distant therefrom, and to the westward
thereof, to a point opposite Fort Ellice; thence in a south-westwardly course to the north-western point of the Moose
Mountains; thence by a line due south to the United States frontier; thence by the frontier eastwardly to the westward
line of said tract ceded by treaty as aforesaid; thence bounded thereby by the west, northwest and north lines of said
tract, to the place of beginning, at the mouth of Winnipeg River. To have and to hold the same to Her Majesty the Queen
and Her successors forever; and Her Majesty the Queen hereby agrees and undertakes to lay aside and reserve for the
sole and exclusive use of the Indians inhabiting the said tract the following lots of land, that is to say:
For the use of the Indians belonging to the band of which Mekis is Chief, so much land between Turtle River and Valley
River, on the south side of Lake Dauphin, as will make one hundred and sixty acres for each family of five persons, or in
the same proportion for a greater or smaller number of persons. And for the use of the Indians belonging to the band of
which François, or Broken Fingers, is Chief, so much land on Crane River, running into Lake Manitoba, as will make one
hundred and sixty acres for each family of five persons, or in the same proportion for a greater or smaller number of
persons. And for the use of the band of Indians belonging to the bands of which Ma-sah-kee-yash and Richard
Woodhouse are Chiefs, so much land on the river between Lake Manitoba and St. Martin’s Lake, known as “Fairford
River,” and including the present Indian mission grounds, as will make one hundred and sixty acres for each family of five
persons, or in the same proportion for a greater or smaller number of persons.
And for the use of the Indians of whom Sou-sonce is Chief, so much land on the east side of Lake Manitoba, to be laid off
north of the creek near which a fallen elm tree now lies, and about half way between Oak Point and Manitoba Post, so
much land as will make one hundred and sixty acres for each family of five persons, or in the same proportion for a
greater or smaller number of persons. Saving, nevertheless, the rights of any white or other settler now in occupation of
any lands within the lines of any such reserve.
And with a view to show the satisfaction of Her Majesty with the behaviour and good conduct of Her Indians, parties to
this treaty, She hereby, through Her Commissioner, makes them a present of three dollars for each Indian man, woman
and child belonging to the band here represented.
And further, Her Majesty agrees to maintain a school in each reserve hereby made, whenever the Indians of the reserve
shall desire it.
Her Majesty further agrees with Her said Indians that within the boundary of Indian reserves, until otherwise enacted by
the proper legislative authority, no intoxicating liquor shall be allowed to be introduced or sold, and all laws now in force
or hereafter to be enacted to preserve Her Indian subjects inhabiting the reserves or living elsewhere within Her North-
West Territories, from the evil influence of the use of intoxicating liquors, shall be strictly enforced.
And further, that Her Majesty’s Commissioner shall, as soon as possible after the execution of this treaty, cause to be
taken an accurate census of all the Indians inhabiting the tract above described, distributing them in families, and shall in
every year ensuing the date hereof, at some period during the month of August in each year to be duly notified to the
Indians, and at or near their respective reserves, pay to each Indian family of five persons the sum of fifteen dollars,
Canadian currency, or in like proportion for a larger or smaller family, such payment to be made in such articles as the
Indians shall require of blankets, clothing, prints (assorted colours), twine or traps, at the current cash price in Montreal,
or otherwise, if Her Majesty shall deem the same desirable in the interest of Her Indian people, in cash.
And the undersigned Chiefs, on their own behalf and on behalf of all other Indians inhabiting the tract within ceded, do
hereby solemnly promise and engage to strictly observe this treaty, and also to conduct and behave themselves as good
and loyal subjects of Her Majesty the Queen. They promise and engage that they will in all respects obey and abide by the
law; that they will maintain peace and good order between each other, and also between themselves and other tribes of
Signed, sealed and delivered in the presence of, the same
having been first read and explained:
ADAMS G. ARCHIBALD, Lieut.-Gov. of Man. and N.W.
Territories.
JAMES McKAY, P.L.C.
A. G. IRVINE, Major
ABRAHAM COWLEY,
DONALD GUNN, M.L.C.
THOMAS HOWARD, P.S.
HENRY COCHRANE,
JAMES McARRISTER,
HUGH McARRISTER,
E. ALICE ARCHIBALD,
HENRI BOUTHILLIER.
WEMYSS M. SIMPSON, [L.S.] Indian Commissioner,
MIS-KOO-KEE-NEW, or RED EAGLE (HENRY PRINCE),
his x mark
KA-KE-KA-PENAIS (or BIRD FOR EVER), WILLIAM
PENNEFATHER,
his x mark
NA-SHA-KE-PENNAIS, or FLYING DOWN BIRD,
his x mark
NA-HA-WA-NANAN, or CENTRE OF BIRD’S TAIL, his x mark
KE-WE-TAY-ASH, or FLYINGROUND,
his x mark
WA-KO-WUSH, or WHIP-POOR-WILL,
his x mark
OO-ZA-WE-KWUN, or YELLOW QUILL,
his x mark
ème
os
In the presence of the following:
ALEX. MORRIS, L.G. [S.L.]
JAMES McKAY.
JAMES F. GRAHAM.
ISAAC COWIE.
FRANCIS FIELD.
JOHN A. DAVIDSON.
CHARLES WOOD.
Representing East-Manitoba or Elm Point:
SON-SONSE,
chief, his x mark
NA-KA-NA-WA-TANG,
his x mark.
PA-PA-WE-GUN-WA-TAK,
his x mark.
Councillors.
Representing Fairford Prairie:
MA-SAH-KEE-YASH,
chief, his x mark.
DAVID MARSDEN,
Councillor, his x mark.
JOSEPH SUMNER,
Councillor, his x mark
Representing Fairford Prairie:
RICHARD WOODHOUSE, chief.
JOHN ANDERSON, Councillor.
JOHN THOMPSON,
Councillor, his x mark
Formerly Crane River and now Ebb and Flow Lake:
PENAISE,
chief, his x mark
(son of deceased Broken Finger.)
BAPTISTE,
Councillor, his x mark.
KAH-NEE-QUA-NASH,
Councillor, his x mark.
Representing Water Hen Band:
KA-TAH-KAK-WA-NA-YAAS,
chief, his x mark.
WA-WAH-KOW-WEK-AH-POW,
Councillor, his x mark.
Representing Turtle River and Valley River and Riding
Mountain:
KEE-SICK-KOO-WE-NIN,
chief, his x mark.
(in place of Mekis, dead.)
KEE-SAY-KEE-SICK,
Councillor, his x mark.
NOS-QUASH,
brave, his x mark.
BAPTISTE,
brave, his x mark.
Representing the St. Peter’s Band:
MIS-KOO-KE-NEW, (or Red Eagle),
his x mark.
MA-TWA-KA-KEE-TOOT,
his x mark.
I-AND-WAY-WAY,
his x mark.
MA-KO-ME-WE-KUN,
his x mark.
AS-SHO-AH-MEY,
his x mark.
Signed near Fort Alexander, on the Indian Reserve, the
twenty-third day of August in the year of Our Lord one
thousand eight hundred and seventy-five.
Witnesses:
J.A.N. PROVENCHER, Indian Commissioner.
J. DUBUC
A. DUBUC
JOSEPH MONKMAN, Interpreter.
WM. LOUNT.
H.L. REYNOLDS.
KAKEKEPENAIS, ou WILLIAM PENNEFATHER,
his x mark
JOSEPH KENT,
his x mark
PETANAQUAGE, ou HENRY VANE,
his x mark
Signed at Broken Head River,
the twenty-eighth day of August, in the year of our Lord
one thousand eight hundred and seventy-five.
Witnesses:
J.A.N. PROVENCHER,
Indian Commissioner.
J. DUBUC.
H.L. REYNOLDS.
DANIEL DEVLIN.
HENRY COOK.
PETER HENDERSON,
his x mark
KAY-PAYAHSINISK,
his x mark
NASHAKEPENAIS,
his x mark
AHKEESEEKWASKEMG,
his x mark
NAYWAHEHEEKEEGIK,
his x mark
MAYJAHKEEGEEQUAN,
his x mark
PAYSAUGA,
his x mark
Signed on the reserve at Rosseau River,
8th day of September, 1875.
J.A.N. PROVENCHER, Indian Commissioner.
Witness:
JAS. F. GRAHAM.
MA-NA-WA-NANAN, (or CENTRE OF BIRD’S TAIL),
Chief, his x mark
KE-WE-SAY-ASH, (or FLYING ROUND),
Chief, his x mark
WA-KOO-WUSH, (or WHIPPOORWILL),
Chief, his x mark
OSAH-WEE-KA-KAY,
Councillor, his x mark
OSAYS-KOO-KOON,
Councillor, his x mark
SHAY-WAY-ASH,
Councillor, his x mark
SHE-SHE-PENSE,
Councillor, his x mark
MA-MAH-TAK-CUM-E-CUP,
Councillor, his x mark
PAH-TE-CU-WEE-NINN,
Councillor, his x mark
KAK-KA-QUIN-IASH,
Brave, his x mark
ANA-WAY-WEE-TIN,
Brave, sa x marque.
TIBIS-QUO-GE-SICK,
Brave, his x mark
NE-SHO-TA,
Brave, sa x marque.
NAT-TEE-KEE-GET,
Brave, sa x marque.MENU
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Treaty Texts – Treaties No. 1 and No. 2
Treaties 1 and 2 Between Her Majesty The Queen and the Chippewa
and Cree Indians of Manitoba and Country Adjacent with Adhesions
LAYOUT IS NOT EXACTLY LIKE ORIGINAL
TRANSCRIBED FROM:
EDMOND CLOUTIER, C.M.G., O.A., D.S.P. QUEEN’S PRINTER AND CONTROLLER OF STATIONERY OTTAWA, 1957
92099-1
Treaty No. 1
ARTICLES OF A TREATY made and concluded this third day of August in the year of Our Lord one thousand eight hundred
and seventy-one, between Her Most Gracious Majesty the Queen of Great Britain and Ireland by Her Commissioner,
Wemyss M. Simpson, Esquire, of the one part, and the Chippewa and Swampy Cree Tribes of Indians, inhabitants of the
country within the limits hereinafter defined and described, by their Chiefs chosen and named as hereinafter mentioned,
of the other part.
Whereas all the Indians inhabiting the said country have pursuant to an appointment made by the said Commissioner,
been convened at a meeting at the Stone Fort, otherwise called Lower Fort Garry, to deliberate upon certain matters of
interest to Her Most Gracious Majesty, of the one part, and to the said Indians of the other, and whereas the said Indians
have been notified and informed by Her Majesty’s said Commissioner that it is the desire of Her Majesty to open up to
settlement and immigration a tract of country bounded and described as hereinafter mentioned, and to obtain the
consent thereto of her Indian subjects inhabiting the said tract, and to make a treaty and arrangements with them so
that there may be peace and good will between them and Her Majesty, and that they may know and be assured of what
allowance they are to count upon and receive year by year from Her Majesty’s bounty and benevolence.
And whereas the Indians of the said tract, duly convened in council as aforesaid, and being requested by Her Majesty’s
said Commissioner to name certain Chiefs and Headmen who should be authorized on their behalf to conduct such
negotiations and sign any treaty to be founded thereon, and to become responsible to Her Majesty for the faithful
performance by their respective bands of such obligations as should be assumed by them, the said Indians have
thereupon named the following persons for that purpose, that is to say:
Mis-koo-kenew or Red Eagle (Henry Prince), Ka-ke-ka-penais, or Bird for ever, Na-sha-ke-penais, or Flying down bird, Na-
na-wa-nanaw, or Centre of Bird’s Tail, Ke-we-tayash, or Flying round, Wa-ko-wush, or Whip-poor-will, Oo-za-we-kwun, or
Yellow Quill,—and thereupon in open council the different bands have presented their respective Chiefs to His Excellency
the Lieutenant Governor of the Province of Manitoba and of the North-West Territory being present at such council, and
to the said Commissioner, as the Chiefs and Headman for the purposes aforesaid of the respective bands of Indians
inhabiting the said district hereinafter described; and whereas the said Lieutenant Governor and the said Commissioner
then and there received and acknowledged the persons so presented as Chiefs and Headmen for the purpose aforesaid;
and whereas the said Commissioner has proceeded to negotiate a treaty with the said Indians, and the same has finally
been agreed upon and concluded as follows, that is to say:
The Chippewa and Swampy Cree Tribes of Indians and all other the Indians inhabiting the district hereinafter described
and defined do hereby cede, release, surrender and yield up to Her Majesty the Queen and successors forever all the
lands included within the following limits, that is to say: Beginning at the international boundary line near its junction
with the Lake of the Woods, at a point due north from the centre of Roseau Lake; thence to run due north to the centre of
Roseau Lake; thence northward to the centre of White Mouth Lake, otherwise called White Mud Lake; thence by the
middle of the lake and the middle of the river issuing therefrom to the mouth thereof in Winnipeg River; thence by the
Winnipeg River to its mouth; thence westwardly, including all the islands near the south end of the lake, across the lake
to the mouth of Drunken River; thence westwardly to a point on Lake Manitoba half way between Oak Point and the
mouth of Swan Creek; thence across Lake Manitoba in a line due west to its western shore; thence in a straight line to the
crossing of the rapids on the Assiniboine; thence due south to the international boundary line; and thence eastwardly by
the said line to the place of beginning. To have and to hold the same to Her said Majesty the Queen and Her successors
for ever; and Her Majesty the Queen hereby agrees and undertakes to lay aside and reserve for the sole and exclusive
use of the Indians the following tracts of land, that is to say: For the use of the Indians belonging to the band of which
Henry Prince, otherwise called Mis-koo-ke-new is the Chief, so much of land on both sides of the Red River, beginning at
the south line of St. Peter’s Parish, as will furnish one hundred and sixty acres for each family of five, or in that proportion
for larger or smaller families; and for the use of the Indians of whom Na-sha-ke-penais, Na-na-wa-nanaw, Ke-we-tayash
and Wa-ko-wush are the Chiefs, so much land on the Roseau River as will furnish one hundred and sixty acres for each
family of five, or in that proportion for larger or smaller families, beginning from the mouth of the river; and for the use
of the Indians of which Ka-ke-ka-penais is the Chief, so much land on the Winnipeg River above Fort Alexander as will
furnish one hundred and sixty acres for each family of five, or in that proportion for larger or smaller families, beginning
at a distance of a mile or thereabout above the Fort; and for the use of the Indians of whom Oo-za-we-kwun is Chief, so
much land on the south and east side of the Assiniboine, about twenty miles above the Portage, as will furnish one
hundred and sixty acres for each family of five, or in that proportion for larger or smaller families, reserving also a further
tract enclosing said reserve to comprise an equivalent to twenty-five square miles of equal breadth, to be laid out round
the reserve, it being understood, however, that if, at the date of the execution of this treaty, there are any settlers within
the bounds of any lands reserved by any band, Her Majesty reserves the right to deal with such settlers as She shall deem
just, so as not to diminish the extent of land allotted to the Indians.
And with a view to show the satisfaction of Her Majesty with the behaviour and good conduct of Her Indians parties to
this treaty, She hereby, through Her Commissioner, makes them a present of three dollars for each Indian man, woman
and child belonging to the bands here represented.
And further, Her Majesty agrees to maintain a school on each reserve hereby made whenever the Indians of the reserve
should desire it.
Within the boundary of Indian reserves, until otherwise enacted by the proper legislative authority, no intoxicating liquor
shall be allowed to be introduced or sold, and all laws now in force or hereafter to be enacted to preserve Her Majesty’s
Indian subjects inhabiting the reserves or living elsewhere from the evil influence of the use of intoxicating liquors shall
be strictly enforced.
Her Majesty’s Commissioner shall, as soon as possible after the execution of this treaty, cause to be taken an accurate
census of all the Indians inhabiting the district above described, distributing them in families, and shall in every year
ensuing the date hereof, at some period during the month of July in each year, to be duly notified to the Indians and at or
near their respective reserves, pay to each Indian family of five persons the sum of fifteen dollars Canadian currency, or
in like proportion for a larger or smaller family, such payment to be made in such articles as the Indians shall require of
blankets, clothing, prints (assorted colours), twine or traps, at the current cost price in Montreal, or otherwise, if Her
Majesty shall deem the same desirable in the interests of Her Indian people, in cash.
And the undersigned Chiefs do hereby bind and pledge themselves and their people strictly to observe this treaty and to
maintain perpetual peace between themselves and Her Majesty’s white subjects, and not to interfere with the property
or in any way molest the persons of Her Majesty’s white or other subjects.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Her Majesty’s said Commissioner and the said Indian Chiefs have hereunto subscribed and set
their hand and seal at Lower Fort Garry, this day and year herein first above named.
MEMORANDUM OF THINGS OUTSIDE OF THE TREATY WHICH
WERE PROMISED AT THE TREATY AT THE LOWER FORT
SIGNED THE THIRD DAY OF AUGUST, A.D. 1871
MÉMOIRE DE DIFFéRENTS ARTICLES, QUI N’ONT PAS ÉTÉ MENTIONNÉS DANS LE TRAITÉ, MAIS, QUI ONT ÉTÉ PROMIS
LORS DU TRAITÉ CONCLU AU FORT D’EN BAS – LOWER FORT – LE 3 JOUR D’AOÛT, A.D. 1871: –
For each Chief who signed the treaty, a dress distinguishing him as Chief.
For braves and for councillors of each Chief a dress; it being supposed that the braves and councillors will be two for each
Chief.
For each Chief, except Yellow Quill, a buggy.
For the braves and councillors of each Chief, except Yellow Quill, a buggy.
In lieu of a yoke of oxen for each reserve, a bull for each, and a cow for each Chief; a boar for each reserve and a sow for
each Chief, and a male and female of each kind of animal raised by farmers, these when the Indians are prepared to
receive them.
A plough and a harrow for each settler cultivating the ground.
These animals and their issue to be Government property, but to be allowed for the use of the Indians, under the
superintendence and control of the Indian Commissioner.
The buggies to be the property of the Indians to whom they are given.
The above contains an inventory of the terms concluded with the Indians.
Wemyss M. Simpson,
Molyneux St. John,
A.G. Archibald,
Jas. McKay.
COPY OF A REPORT OF A COMMITTE OF THE HONOURABLE THE
PRIVY COUCIL,
APPROUVED BY HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOUVERNOR GENERAL IN
COUNCIL ON
THE 30TH APRIL, 1875
Dans un mémoire de l’honorable ministre de l’Intérieur en date du 27 avril 1875 signalant la très grande insatisfaction
des Indiens à l’égard des «promesses ultérieures» aux traités n 1 et 2 conclus avec les Indiens du Manitoba et des
Territoires du Nord-Ouest les 3 et 21 août 1871 respectivement, et faisant les recommandations suivantes:
On a memorandum dated 27th April, 1875, from the Honourable the Minister of the Interior, bringing under
consideration the very unsatisfactory state of affairs arising out of the so-called “outside promises” in connection with
the Indian Treaties Nos. 1 and 2, Manitoba and North-west Territories, concluded, the former on the 3rd August, 1871,
and the latter on 21st of the same month, and recommending for the reasons stated:
1st. That the written memorandum attached to Treaty No. 1 be considered as part of that Treaty and of Treaty No. 2, and
that the Indian Commissioner be instructed to carry out the promises therein contained, in so far as they have not yet
been carried out, and that the Commissioner be advised to inform the Indians that he has been authorized so to do.
2nd. That the Indian Commissioner be instructed to inform the Indians, parties to Treaties Nos. 1 and 2, that, while the
Government cannot admit their claim to any thing which is not set forth in the treaty, and in the memorandum attached
thereto, which treaty is binding alike upon the Government and upon the Indians, yet, as there seems to have been some
misunderstanding between the Indian Commissioner and the Indians in the matter of Treaties Nos. 1 and 2, the
Government, out of good feeling to the Indians and as a matter of benevolence, is willing to raise the annual payment to
each Indian under Treaties Nos. 1 and 2, from $3 to $5 per annum, and make payment over and above such sum of $5, of
$20 each and every year to each Chief, and a suit of clothing every three years to each Chief and each Headman, allowing
two Headmen to each band, on the express understanding, however, that each Chief or other Indian who shall receive
such increased annuity or annual payment shall be held to abandon all claim whatever against the Government in
connection with the so-called “outside promises,” other than those contained in the memorandum attached to the treaty
The Committee submit the foregoing recommendation for Your Excellency’s approval:
W.A. HIMSWORTH,
Clerk Privy Council.
Certified,
W.A. HIMSWORTH,
Clerk Privy Council.
We, the undersigned Chiefs and Headmen of Indian bands, representing bands of Indians who were parties to the
Treaties Nos. 1 and 2, mentioned in the report of the Committee of the Queen’s Privy Council of Canada, above printed,
having had communication thereof, and fully understanding the same assent thereto and accept the increase of
annuities therein mentioned, on the condition therein stated, and with the assent and approval of their several bands, it
being agreed, however, with the Queen’s Commissioners, that the number of braves and councillors for each Chief shall
be four, as at present, instead of two, as printed 1875.
No. 124
We, the undersigned Chiefs and Headmen of Indian bands representing bands of Indians who were parties to the
Treaties Nos. 1 and 2, mentioned in the report of a Committee of the Queen’s Privy Council of Canada, “as printed on the
other side of this parchment,” having had communication thereof and fully understanding the same, assent thereto and
accept the increase of annuities therein mentioned on the condition therein stated, and with the assent and approval of
their several bands, it being agreed, however, with the Queen’s Commissioners, that the number of braves and
councillors for each Chief shall be four, as at present, instead of two, as printed 1875.
No 124
We the undersigned Chiefs and Headmen of Indian bands representing bands of Indians who were parties to the
Treaties Nos. 1 and 2 mentioned in the report of a Committee of the Queen’s Privy Council of Canada, as printed on the
other side of this sheet, having had communication thereof and full understanding of the same, assent thereto and
accept the increase of annuities therein mentioned, on the condition therein stated, and with the assent and approval of
their several bands, it being agreed, however, with the Queen’s Commissioners, that the number of braves and
councillors for each Chief shall be four, as at present, instead of two, as printed.
Treaty No. 2
ARTICLES OF TREATY made and concluded this twenty-first day of August, in the year of Our Lord one thousand eight
hundred and seventy-one, between Her Most Gracious Majesty the Queen of Great Britain and Ireland, by Her
Commissioner Wemyss M. Simpson, Esquire, of the one part, and the Chippewa Tribe of Indians, inhabitants of the
country within the limits hereinafter defined and described, by their Chiefs chosen and named as hereinafter mentioned,
of the other part.
Whereas, all the Indians inhabiting the said country have, pursuant to an appointment made by the said Commissioner,
been convened at a meeting at Manitoba Post to deliberate upon certain matters of interest to Her Most Gracious
Majesty, of the one part, and to the said Indians of the other; and whereas the said Indians have been notified and
informed by Her Majesty’s said Commissioner that it is the desire of Her Majesty to open up to settlement and
immigration a tract of country bounded and described as hereinafter mentioned and to obtain the consent thereto of her
Indian subjects inhabiting the said tract, and to make a treaty and arrangement with them, so that there may be peace
and good will between them and Her Majesty and that they may know and be assured of what allowance they are to
count upon and receive from Her Majesty’s bounty and benevolence.
And whereas the Indians of the said tract, duly convened in council as aforesaid, and being requested by Her Majesty’s
said Commissioner to name certain Chiefs and Headmen who should be authorized on their behalf to conduct such
negotiations and sign any treaty to be founded thereon, and to become responsible to Her Majesty for the faithful
performance by their respective bands of such obligations as shall be assumed by them, the said Indians have thereupon
named the following persons for that purpose, that is to say:
For the Swan Creek and Lake Manitoba Indians, Sou-sonse or Little Long Ears; for the Indians of Fairford and the
neighboring localities, Ma-sah-kee-yash or “He who flies to the bottom,” and Richard Woodhouse, whose Indian name is
Ke-wee-tah-quun-na-yash or “He who flies round the feathers;” for the Indians of Waterhen River and Crane River and
the neighboring localities, Francois, or Broken Fingers; and for the Indians of Riding Mountains and Dauphin Lake and
the remainder of the territory hereby ceded, Mekis (the Eagle), or Giroux.
And, thereupon, in open council the different bands have presented their respective Chiefs to His Excellency the
Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba and of the North-west Territory being present at such council and to the said
Commissioner, as the Chiefs and Headmen, for the purposes aforesaid, of the respective bands of Indians inhabiting the
said district hereinafter described; and whereas the said Lieutenant Governor and the said Commissioner then and there
received and acknowledged the persons so presented as Chiefs and Headmen for the purposes aforesaid of the
respective bands of Indians inhabiting the said district hereinafter described; and whereas the said Commissioner has
proceeded to negotiate a treaty with the said Indians, and the same has finally been agreed upon and concluded, as
follows, that is to say:
The Chippewa Tribe of Indians and all other the Indians inhabiting the district hereinafter described and defined do
hereby cede, release, surrender and yield up to Her Majesty the Queen, and Her successors forever, all the lands included
within the following limits, that is to say:
All that tract of country lying partly to the north and partly to the west of a tract of land ceded to Her Majesty the Queen
by the Indians inhabiting the Province of Manitoba, and certain adjacent localities, under the terms of a treaty made at
Lower Fort Garry on the third day of August last past, the land now intended to be ceded and surrendered being
particularly described as follows, that is to say: Beginning at the mouth of Winnipeg River, on the north line of the lands
ceded by said treaty; thence running along the eastern shore of Lake Winnipeg northwardly as far as the mouth of
Beren’s River; thence across said lake to its western shore, at the north bank of the mouth of the Little Saskatchewan or
Dauphin River; thence up said stream and along the northern and western shores thereof, and of St. Martin’s Lake, and
along the north bank of the stream flowing into St. Martin’s Lake from Lake Manitoba by the general course of such
stream to such last-mentioned lake; thence by the eastern and northern shores of Lake Manitoba to the mouth of the
Waterhen River; thence by the eastern and northern shores of said river up stream to the northernmost extremity of a
small lake known as Waterhen Lake; thence in a line due west to and across lake Winnepegosis; thence in a straight line
to the most northerly waters forming the source of the Shell River; thence to a point west of the same two miles distant
from the river, measuring at right angles thereto; thence by a line parallel with the Shell River to its mouth, and thence
crossing the Assiniboine River and running parallel thereto and two miles distant therefrom, and to the westward
thereof, to a point opposite Fort Ellice; thence in a south-westwardly course to the north-western point of the Moose
Mountains; thence by a line due south to the United States frontier; thence by the frontier eastwardly to the westward
line of said tract ceded by treaty as aforesaid; thence bounded thereby by the west, northwest and north lines of said
tract, to the place of beginning, at the mouth of Winnipeg River. To have and to hold the same to Her Majesty the Queen
and Her successors forever; and Her Majesty the Queen hereby agrees and undertakes to lay aside and reserve for the
sole and exclusive use of the Indians inhabiting the said tract the following lots of land, that is to say:
For the use of the Indians belonging to the band of which Mekis is Chief, so much land between Turtle River and Valley
River, on the south side of Lake Dauphin, as will make one hundred and sixty acres for each family of five persons, or in
the same proportion for a greater or smaller number of persons. And for the use of the Indians belonging to the band of
which François, or Broken Fingers, is Chief, so much land on Crane River, running into Lake Manitoba, as will make one
hundred and sixty acres for each family of five persons, or in the same proportion for a greater or smaller number of
persons. And for the use of the band of Indians belonging to the bands of which Ma-sah-kee-yash and Richard
Woodhouse are Chiefs, so much land on the river between Lake Manitoba and St. Martin’s Lake, known as “Fairford
River,” and including the present Indian mission grounds, as will make one hundred and sixty acres for each family of five
persons, or in the same proportion for a greater or smaller number of persons.
And for the use of the Indians of whom Sou-sonce is Chief, so much land on the east side of Lake Manitoba, to be laid off
north of the creek near which a fallen elm tree now lies, and about half way between Oak Point and Manitoba Post, so
much land as will make one hundred and sixty acres for each family of five persons, or in the same proportion for a
greater or smaller number of persons. Saving, nevertheless, the rights of any white or other settler now in occupation of
any lands within the lines of any such reserve.
And with a view to show the satisfaction of Her Majesty with the behaviour and good conduct of Her Indians, parties to
this treaty, She hereby, through Her Commissioner, makes them a present of three dollars for each Indian man, woman
and child belonging to the band here represented.
And further, Her Majesty agrees to maintain a school in each reserve hereby made, whenever the Indians of the reserve
shall desire it.
Her Majesty further agrees with Her said Indians that within the boundary of Indian reserves, until otherwise enacted by
the proper legislative authority, no intoxicating liquor shall be allowed to be introduced or sold, and all laws now in force
or hereafter to be enacted to preserve Her Indian subjects inhabiting the reserves or living elsewhere within Her North-
West Territories, from the evil influence of the use of intoxicating liquors, shall be strictly enforced.
And further, that Her Majesty’s Commissioner shall, as soon as possible after the execution of this treaty, cause to be
taken an accurate census of all the Indians inhabiting the tract above described, distributing them in families, and shall in
every year ensuing the date hereof, at some period during the month of August in each year to be duly notified to the
Indians, and at or near their respective reserves, pay to each Indian family of five persons the sum of fifteen dollars,
Canadian currency, or in like proportion for a larger or smaller family, such payment to be made in such articles as the
Indians shall require of blankets, clothing, prints (assorted colours), twine or traps, at the current cash price in Montreal,
or otherwise, if Her Majesty shall deem the same desirable in the interest of Her Indian people, in cash.
And the undersigned Chiefs, on their own behalf and on behalf of all other Indians inhabiting the tract within ceded, do
hereby solemnly promise and engage to strictly observe this treaty, and also to conduct and behave themselves as good
and loyal subjects of Her Majesty the Queen. They promise and engage that they will in all respects obey and abide by the
law; that they will maintain peace and good order between each other, and also between themselves and other tribes of
Signed, sealed and delivered in the presence of, the same
having been first read and explained:
ADAMS G. ARCHIBALD, Lieut.-Gov. of Man. and N.W.
Territories.
JAMES McKAY, P.L.C.
A. G. IRVINE, Major
ABRAHAM COWLEY,
DONALD GUNN, M.L.C.
THOMAS HOWARD, P.S.
HENRY COCHRANE,
JAMES McARRISTER,
HUGH McARRISTER,
E. ALICE ARCHIBALD,
HENRI BOUTHILLIER.
WEMYSS M. SIMPSON, [L.S.] Indian Commissioner,
MIS-KOO-KEE-NEW, or RED EAGLE (HENRY PRINCE),
his x mark
KA-KE-KA-PENAIS (or BIRD FOR EVER), WILLIAM
PENNEFATHER,
his x mark
NA-SHA-KE-PENNAIS, or FLYING DOWN BIRD,
his x mark
NA-HA-WA-NANAN, or CENTRE OF BIRD’S TAIL, his x mark
KE-WE-TAY-ASH, or FLYINGROUND,
his x mark
WA-KO-WUSH, or WHIP-POOR-WILL,
his x mark
OO-ZA-WE-KWUN, or YELLOW QUILL,
his x mark
ème
os
In the presence of the following:
ALEX. MORRIS, L.G. [S.L.]
JAMES McKAY.
JAMES F. GRAHAM.
ISAAC COWIE.
FRANCIS FIELD.
JOHN A. DAVIDSON.
CHARLES WOOD.
Representing East-Manitoba or Elm Point:
SON-SONSE,
chief, his x mark
NA-KA-NA-WA-TANG,
his x mark.
PA-PA-WE-GUN-WA-TAK,
his x mark.
Councillors.
Representing Fairford Prairie:
MA-SAH-KEE-YASH,
chief, his x mark.
DAVID MARSDEN,
Councillor, his x mark.
JOSEPH SUMNER,
Councillor, his x mark
Representing Fairford Prairie:
RICHARD WOODHOUSE, chief.
JOHN ANDERSON, Councillor.
JOHN THOMPSON,
Councillor, his x mark
Formerly Crane River and now Ebb and Flow Lake:
PENAISE,
chief, his x mark
(son of deceased Broken Finger.)
BAPTISTE,
Councillor, his x mark.
KAH-NEE-QUA-NASH,
Councillor, his x mark.
Representing Water Hen Band:
KA-TAH-KAK-WA-NA-YAAS,
chief, his x mark.
WA-WAH-KOW-WEK-AH-POW,
Councillor, his x mark.
Representing Turtle River and Valley River and Riding
Mountain:
KEE-SICK-KOO-WE-NIN,
chief, his x mark.
(in place of Mekis, dead.)
KEE-SAY-KEE-SICK,
Councillor, his x mark.
NOS-QUASH,
brave, his x mark.
BAPTISTE,
brave, his x mark.
Representing the St. Peter’s Band:
MIS-KOO-KE-NEW, (or Red Eagle),
his x mark.
MA-TWA-KA-KEE-TOOT,
his x mark.
I-AND-WAY-WAY,
his x mark.
MA-KO-ME-WE-KUN,
his x mark.
AS-SHO-AH-MEY,
his x mark.
Signed near Fort Alexander, on the Indian Reserve, the
twenty-third day of August in the year of Our Lord one
thousand eight hundred and seventy-five.
Witnesses:
J.A.N. PROVENCHER, Indian Commissioner.
J. DUBUC
A. DUBUC
JOSEPH MONKMAN, Interpreter.
WM. LOUNT.
H.L. REYNOLDS.
KAKEKEPENAIS, ou WILLIAM PENNEFATHER,
his x mark
JOSEPH KENT,
his x mark
PETANAQUAGE, ou HENRY VANE,
his x mark
Signed at Broken Head River,
the twenty-eighth day of August, in the year of our Lord
one thousand eight hundred and seventy-five.
Witnesses:
J.A.N. PROVENCHER,
Indian Commissioner.
J. DUBUC.
H.L. REYNOLDS.
DANIEL DEVLIN.
HENRY COOK.
PETER HENDERSON,
his x mark
KAY-PAYAHSINISK,
his x mark
NASHAKEPENAIS,
his x mark
AHKEESEEKWASKEMG,
his x mark
NAYWAHEHEEKEEGIK,
his x mark
MAYJAHKEEGEEQUAN,
his x mark
PAYSAUGA,
his x mark
Signed on the reserve at Rosseau River,
8th day of September, 1875.
J.A.N. PROVENCHER, Indian Commissioner.
Witness:
JAS. F. GRAHAM.
MA-NA-WA-NANAN, (or CENTRE OF BIRD’S TAIL),
Chief, his x mark
KE-WE-SAY-ASH, (or FLYING ROUND),
Chief, his x mark
WA-KOO-WUSH, (or WHIPPOORWILL),
Chief, his x mark
OSAH-WEE-KA-KAY,
Councillor, his x mark
OSAYS-KOO-KOON,
Councillor, his x mark
SHAY-WAY-ASH,
Councillor, his x mark
SHE-SHE-PENSE,
Councillor, his x mark
MA-MAH-TAK-CUM-E-CUP,
Councillor, his x mark
PAH-TE-CU-WEE-NINN,
Councillor, his x mark
KAK-KA-QUIN-IASH,
Brave, his x mark
ANA-WAY-WEE-TIN,
Brave, sa x marque.
TIBIS-QUO-GE-SICK,
Brave, his x mark
NE-SHO-TA,
Brave, sa x marque.
NAT-TEE-KEE-GET,
Brave, sa x marque.MENU
Canada.ca Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada Treaties, agreements and negotiations About treaties Treaty Texts
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Treaty Texts – Treaties No. 1 and No. 2
Treaties 1 and 2 Between Her Majesty The Queen and the Chippewa
and Cree Indians of Manitoba and Country Adjacent with Adhesions
LAYOUT IS NOT EXACTLY LIKE ORIGINAL
TRANSCRIBED FROM:
EDMOND CLOUTIER, C.M.G., O.A., D.S.P. QUEEN’S PRINTER AND CONTROLLER OF STATIONERY OTTAWA, 1957
92099-1
Treaty No. 1
ARTICLES OF A TREATY made and concluded this third day of August in the year of Our Lord one thousand eight hundred
and seventy-one, between Her Most Gracious Majesty the Queen of Great Britain and Ireland by Her Commissioner,
Wemyss M. Simpson, Esquire, of the one part, and the Chippewa and Swampy Cree Tribes of Indians, inhabitants of the
country within the limits hereinafter defined and described, by their Chiefs chosen and named as hereinafter mentioned,
of the other part.
Whereas all the Indians inhabiting the said country have pursuant to an appointment made by the said Commissioner,
been convened at a meeting at the Stone Fort, otherwise called Lower Fort Garry, to deliberate upon certain matters of
interest to Her Most Gracious Majesty, of the one part, and to the said Indians of the other, and whereas the said Indians
have been notified and informed by Her Majesty’s said Commissioner that it is the desire of Her Majesty to open up to
settlement and immigration a tract of country bounded and described as hereinafter mentioned, and to obtain the
consent thereto of her Indian subjects inhabiting the said tract, and to make a treaty and arrangements with them so
that there may be peace and good will between them and Her Majesty, and that they may know and be assured of what
allowance they are to count upon and receive year by year from Her Majesty’s bounty and benevolence.
And whereas the Indians of the said tract, duly convened in council as aforesaid, and being requested by Her Majesty’s
said Commissioner to name certain Chiefs and Headmen who should be authorized on their behalf to conduct such
negotiations and sign any treaty to be founded thereon, and to become responsible to Her Majesty for the faithful
performance by their respective bands of such obligations as should be assumed by them, the said Indians have
thereupon named the following persons for that purpose, that is to say:
Mis-koo-kenew or Red Eagle (Henry Prince), Ka-ke-ka-penais, or Bird for ever, Na-sha-ke-penais, or Flying down bird, Na-
na-wa-nanaw, or Centre of Bird’s Tail, Ke-we-tayash, or Flying round, Wa-ko-wush, or Whip-poor-will, Oo-za-we-kwun, or
Yellow Quill,—and thereupon in open council the different bands have presented their respective Chiefs to His Excellency
the Lieutenant Governor of the Province of Manitoba and of the North-West Territory being present at such council, and
to the said Commissioner, as the Chiefs and Headman for the purposes aforesaid of the respective bands of Indians
inhabiting the said district hereinafter described; and whereas the said Lieutenant Governor and the said Commissioner
then and there received and acknowledged the persons so presented as Chiefs and Headmen for the purpose aforesaid;
and whereas the said Commissioner has proceeded to negotiate a treaty with the said Indians, and the same has finally
been agreed upon and concluded as follows, that is to say:
The Chippewa and Swampy Cree Tribes of Indians and all other the Indians inhabiting the district hereinafter described
and defined do hereby cede, release, surrender and yield up to Her Majesty the Queen and successors forever all the
lands included within the following limits, that is to say: Beginning at the international boundary line near its junction
with the Lake of the Woods, at a point due north from the centre of Roseau Lake; thence to run due north to the centre of
Roseau Lake; thence northward to the centre of White Mouth Lake, otherwise called White Mud Lake; thence by the
middle of the lake and the middle of the river issuing therefrom to the mouth thereof in Winnipeg River; thence by the
Winnipeg River to its mouth; thence westwardly, including all the islands near the south end of the lake, across the lake
to the mouth of Drunken River; thence westwardly to a point on Lake Manitoba half way between Oak Point and the
mouth of Swan Creek; thence across Lake Manitoba in a line due west to its western shore; thence in a straight line to the
crossing of the rapids on the Assiniboine; thence due south to the international boundary line; and thence eastwardly by
the said line to the place of beginning. To have and to hold the same to Her said Majesty the Queen and Her successors
for ever; and Her Majesty the Queen hereby agrees and undertakes to lay aside and reserve for the sole and exclusive
use of the Indians the following tracts of land, that is to say: For the use of the Indians belonging to the band of which
Henry Prince, otherwise called Mis-koo-ke-new is the Chief, so much of land on both sides of the Red River, beginning at
the south line of St. Peter’s Parish, as will furnish one hundred and sixty acres for each family of five, or in that proportion
for larger or smaller families; and for the use of the Indians of whom Na-sha-ke-penais, Na-na-wa-nanaw, Ke-we-tayash
and Wa-ko-wush are the Chiefs, so much land on the Roseau River as will furnish one hundred and sixty acres for each
family of five, or in that proportion for larger or smaller families, beginning from the mouth of the river; and for the use
of the Indians of which Ka-ke-ka-penais is the Chief, so much land on the Winnipeg River above Fort Alexander as will
furnish one hundred and sixty acres for each family of five, or in that proportion for larger or smaller families, beginning
at a distance of a mile or thereabout above the Fort; and for the use of the Indians of whom Oo-za-we-kwun is Chief, so
much land on the south and east side of the Assiniboine, about twenty miles above the Portage, as will furnish one
hundred and sixty acres for each family of five, or in that proportion for larger or smaller families, reserving also a further
tract enclosing said reserve to comprise an equivalent to twenty-five square miles of equal breadth, to be laid out round
the reserve, it being understood, however, that if, at the date of the execution of this treaty, there are any settlers within
the bounds of any lands reserved by any band, Her Majesty reserves the right to deal with such settlers as She shall deem
just, so as not to diminish the extent of land allotted to the Indians.
And with a view to show the satisfaction of Her Majesty with the behaviour and good conduct of Her Indians parties to
this treaty, She hereby, through Her Commissioner, makes them a present of three dollars for each Indian man, woman
and child belonging to the bands here represented.
And further, Her Majesty agrees to maintain a school on each reserve hereby made whenever the Indians of the reserve
should desire it.
Within the boundary of Indian reserves, until otherwise enacted by the proper legislative authority, no intoxicating liquor
shall be allowed to be introduced or sold, and all laws now in force or hereafter to be enacted to preserve Her Majesty’s
Indian subjects inhabiting the reserves or living elsewhere from the evil influence of the use of intoxicating liquors shall
be strictly enforced.
Her Majesty’s Commissioner shall, as soon as possible after the execution of this treaty, cause to be taken an accurate
census of all the Indians inhabiting the district above described, distributing them in families, and shall in every year
ensuing the date hereof, at some period during the month of July in each year, to be duly notified to the Indians and at or
near their respective reserves, pay to each Indian family of five persons the sum of fifteen dollars Canadian currency, or
in like proportion for a larger or smaller family, such payment to be made in such articles as the Indians shall require of
blankets, clothing, prints (assorted colours), twine or traps, at the current cost price in Montreal, or otherwise, if Her
Majesty shall deem the same desirable in the interests of Her Indian people, in cash.
And the undersigned Chiefs do hereby bind and pledge themselves and their people strictly to observe this treaty and to
maintain perpetual peace between themselves and Her Majesty’s white subjects, and not to interfere with the property
or in any way molest the persons of Her Majesty’s white or other subjects.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Her Majesty’s said Commissioner and the said Indian Chiefs have hereunto subscribed and set
their hand and seal at Lower Fort Garry, this day and year herein first above named.
MEMORANDUM OF THINGS OUTSIDE OF THE TREATY WHICH
WERE PROMISED AT THE TREATY AT THE LOWER FORT
SIGNED THE THIRD DAY OF AUGUST, A.D. 1871
MÉMOIRE DE DIFFéRENTS ARTICLES, QUI N’ONT PAS ÉTÉ MENTIONNÉS DANS LE TRAITÉ, MAIS, QUI ONT ÉTÉ PROMIS
LORS DU TRAITÉ CONCLU AU FORT D’EN BAS – LOWER FORT – LE 3 JOUR D’AOÛT, A.D. 1871: –
For each Chief who signed the treaty, a dress distinguishing him as Chief.
For braves and for councillors of each Chief a dress; it being supposed that the braves and councillors will be two for each
Chief.
For each Chief, except Yellow Quill, a buggy.
For the braves and councillors of each Chief, except Yellow Quill, a buggy.
In lieu of a yoke of oxen for each reserve, a bull for each, and a cow for each Chief; a boar for each reserve and a sow for
each Chief, and a male and female of each kind of animal raised by farmers, these when the Indians are prepared to
receive them.
A plough and a harrow for each settler cultivating the ground.
These animals and their issue to be Government property, but to be allowed for the use of the Indians, under the
superintendence and control of the Indian Commissioner.
The buggies to be the property of the Indians to whom they are given.
The above contains an inventory of the terms concluded with the Indians.
Wemyss M. Simpson,
Molyneux St. John,
A.G. Archibald,
Jas. McKay.
COPY OF A REPORT OF A COMMITTE OF THE HONOURABLE THE
PRIVY COUCIL,
APPROUVED BY HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOUVERNOR GENERAL IN
COUNCIL ON
THE 30TH APRIL, 1875
Dans un mémoire de l’honorable ministre de l’Intérieur en date du 27 avril 1875 signalant la très grande insatisfaction
des Indiens à l’égard des «promesses ultérieures» aux traités n 1 et 2 conclus avec les Indiens du Manitoba et des
Territoires du Nord-Ouest les 3 et 21 août 1871 respectivement, et faisant les recommandations suivantes:
On a memorandum dated 27th April, 1875, from the Honourable the Minister of the Interior, bringing under
consideration the very unsatisfactory state of affairs arising out of the so-called “outside promises” in connection with
the Indian Treaties Nos. 1 and 2, Manitoba and North-west Territories, concluded, the former on the 3rd August, 1871,
and the latter on 21st of the same month, and recommending for the reasons stated:
1st. That the written memorandum attached to Treaty No. 1 be considered as part of that Treaty and of Treaty No. 2, and
that the Indian Commissioner be instructed to carry out the promises therein contained, in so far as they have not yet
been carried out, and that the Commissioner be advised to inform the Indians that he has been authorized so to do.
2nd. That the Indian Commissioner be instructed to inform the Indians, parties to Treaties Nos. 1 and 2, that, while the
Government cannot admit their claim to any thing which is not set forth in the treaty, and in the memorandum attached
thereto, which treaty is binding alike upon the Government and upon the Indians, yet, as there seems to have been some
misunderstanding between the Indian Commissioner and the Indians in the matter of Treaties Nos. 1 and 2, the
Government, out of good feeling to the Indians and as a matter of benevolence, is willing to raise the annual payment to
each Indian under Treaties Nos. 1 and 2, from $3 to $5 per annum, and make payment over and above such sum of $5, of
$20 each and every year to each Chief, and a suit of clothing every three years to each Chief and each Headman, allowing
two Headmen to each band, on the express understanding, however, that each Chief or other Indian who shall receive
such increased annuity or annual payment shall be held to abandon all claim whatever against the Government in
connection with the so-called “outside promises,” other than those contained in the memorandum attached to the treaty
The Committee submit the foregoing recommendation for Your Excellency’s approval:
W.A. HIMSWORTH,
Clerk Privy Council.
Certified,
W.A. HIMSWORTH,
Clerk Privy Council.
We, the undersigned Chiefs and Headmen of Indian bands, representing bands of Indians who were parties to the
Treaties Nos. 1 and 2, mentioned in the report of the Committee of the Queen’s Privy Council of Canada, above printed,
having had communication thereof, and fully understanding the same assent thereto and accept the increase of
annuities therein mentioned, on the condition therein stated, and with the assent and approval of their several bands, it
being agreed, however, with the Queen’s Commissioners, that the number of braves and councillors for each Chief shall
be four, as at present, instead of two, as printed 1875.
No. 124
We, the undersigned Chiefs and Headmen of Indian bands representing bands of Indians who were parties to the
Treaties Nos. 1 and 2, mentioned in the report of a Committee of the Queen’s Privy Council of Canada, “as printed on the
other side of this parchment,” having had communication thereof and fully understanding the same, assent thereto and
accept the increase of annuities therein mentioned on the condition therein stated, and with the assent and approval of
their several bands, it being agreed, however, with the Queen’s Commissioners, that the number of braves and
councillors for each Chief shall be four, as at present, instead of two, as printed 1875.
No 124
We the undersigned Chiefs and Headmen of Indian bands representing bands of Indians who were parties to the
Treaties Nos. 1 and 2 mentioned in the report of a Committee of the Queen’s Privy Council of Canada, as printed on the
other side of this sheet, having had communication thereof and full understanding of the same, assent thereto and
accept the increase of annuities therein mentioned, on the condition therein stated, and with the assent and approval of
their several bands, it being agreed, however, with the Queen’s Commissioners, that the number of braves and
councillors for each Chief shall be four, as at present, instead of two, as printed.
Treaty No. 2
ARTICLES OF TREATY made and concluded this twenty-first day of August, in the year of Our Lord one thousand eight
hundred and seventy-one, between Her Most Gracious Majesty the Queen of Great Britain and Ireland, by Her
Commissioner Wemyss M. Simpson, Esquire, of the one part, and the Chippewa Tribe of Indians, inhabitants of the
country within the limits hereinafter defined and described, by their Chiefs chosen and named as hereinafter mentioned,
of the other part.
Whereas, all the Indians inhabiting the said country have, pursuant to an appointment made by the said Commissioner,
been convened at a meeting at Manitoba Post to deliberate upon certain matters of interest to Her Most Gracious
Majesty, of the one part, and to the said Indians of the other; and whereas the said Indians have been notified and
informed by Her Majesty’s said Commissioner that it is the desire of Her Majesty to open up to settlement and
immigration a tract of country bounded and described as hereinafter mentioned and to obtain the consent thereto of her
Indian subjects inhabiting the said tract, and to make a treaty and arrangement with them, so that there may be peace
and good will between them and Her Majesty and that they may know and be assured of what allowance they are to
count upon and receive from Her Majesty’s bounty and benevolence.
And whereas the Indians of the said tract, duly convened in council as aforesaid, and being requested by Her Majesty’s
said Commissioner to name certain Chiefs and Headmen who should be authorized on their behalf to conduct such
negotiations and sign any treaty to be founded thereon, and to become responsible to Her Majesty for the faithful
performance by their respective bands of such obligations as shall be assumed by them, the said Indians have thereupon
named the following persons for that purpose, that is to say:
For the Swan Creek and Lake Manitoba Indians, Sou-sonse or Little Long Ears; for the Indians of Fairford and the
neighboring localities, Ma-sah-kee-yash or “He who flies to the bottom,” and Richard Woodhouse, whose Indian name is
Ke-wee-tah-quun-na-yash or “He who flies round the feathers;” for the Indians of Waterhen River and Crane River and
the neighboring localities, Francois, or Broken Fingers; and for the Indians of Riding Mountains and Dauphin Lake and
the remainder of the territory hereby ceded, Mekis (the Eagle), or Giroux.
And, thereupon, in open council the different bands have presented their respective Chiefs to His Excellency the
Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba and of the North-west Territory being present at such council and to the said
Commissioner, as the Chiefs and Headmen, for the purposes aforesaid, of the respective bands of Indians inhabiting the
said district hereinafter described; and whereas the said Lieutenant Governor and the said Commissioner then and there
received and acknowledged the persons so presented as Chiefs and Headmen for the purposes aforesaid of the
respective bands of Indians inhabiting the said district hereinafter described; and whereas the said Commissioner has
proceeded to negotiate a treaty with the said Indians, and the same has finally been agreed upon and concluded, as
follows, that is to say:
The Chippewa Tribe of Indians and all other the Indians inhabiting the district hereinafter described and defined do
hereby cede, release, surrender and yield up to Her Majesty the Queen, and Her successors forever, all the lands included
within the following limits, that is to say:
All that tract of country lying partly to the north and partly to the west of a tract of land ceded to Her Majesty the Queen
by the Indians inhabiting the Province of Manitoba, and certain adjacent localities, under the terms of a treaty made at
Lower Fort Garry on the third day of August last past, the land now intended to be ceded and surrendered being
particularly described as follows, that is to say: Beginning at the mouth of Winnipeg River, on the north line of the lands
ceded by said treaty; thence running along the eastern shore of Lake Winnipeg northwardly as far as the mouth of
Beren’s River; thence across said lake to its western shore, at the north bank of the mouth of the Little Saskatchewan or
Dauphin River; thence up said stream and along the northern and western shores thereof, and of St. Martin’s Lake, and
along the north bank of the stream flowing into St. Martin’s Lake from Lake Manitoba by the general course of such
stream to such last-mentioned lake; thence by the eastern and northern shores of Lake Manitoba to the mouth of the
Waterhen River; thence by the eastern and northern shores of said river up stream to the northernmost extremity of a
small lake known as Waterhen Lake; thence in a line due west to and across lake Winnepegosis; thence in a straight line
to the most northerly waters forming the source of the Shell River; thence to a point west of the same two miles distant
from the river, measuring at right angles thereto; thence by a line parallel with the Shell River to its mouth, and thence
crossing the Assiniboine River and running parallel thereto and two miles distant therefrom, and to the westward
thereof, to a point opposite Fort Ellice; thence in a south-westwardly course to the north-western point of the Moose
Mountains; thence by a line due south to the United States frontier; thence by the frontier eastwardly to the westward
line of said tract ceded by treaty as aforesaid; thence bounded thereby by the west, northwest and north lines of said
tract, to the place of beginning, at the mouth of Winnipeg River. To have and to hold the same to Her Majesty the Queen
and Her successors forever; and Her Majesty the Queen hereby agrees and undertakes to lay aside and reserve for the
sole and exclusive use of the Indians inhabiting the said tract the following lots of land, that is to say:
For the use of the Indians belonging to the band of which Mekis is Chief, so much land between Turtle River and Valley
River, on the south side of Lake Dauphin, as will make one hundred and sixty acres for each family of five persons, or in
the same proportion for a greater or smaller number of persons. And for the use of the Indians belonging to the band of
which François, or Broken Fingers, is Chief, so much land on Crane River, running into Lake Manitoba, as will make one
hundred and sixty acres for each family of five persons, or in the same proportion for a greater or smaller number of
persons. And for the use of the band of Indians belonging to the bands of which Ma-sah-kee-yash and Richard
Woodhouse are Chiefs, so much land on the river between Lake Manitoba and St. Martin’s Lake, known as “Fairford
River,” and including the present Indian mission grounds, as will make one hundred and sixty acres for each family of five
persons, or in the same proportion for a greater or smaller number of persons.
And for the use of the Indians of whom Sou-sonce is Chief, so much land on the east side of Lake Manitoba, to be laid off
north of the creek near which a fallen elm tree now lies, and about half way between Oak Point and Manitoba Post, so
much land as will make one hundred and sixty acres for each family of five persons, or in the same proportion for a
greater or smaller number of persons. Saving, nevertheless, the rights of any white or other settler now in occupation of
any lands within the lines of any such reserve.
And with a view to show the satisfaction of Her Majesty with the behaviour and good conduct of Her Indians, parties to
this treaty, She hereby, through Her Commissioner, makes them a present of three dollars for each Indian man, woman
and child belonging to the band here represented.
And further, Her Majesty agrees to maintain a school in each reserve hereby made, whenever the Indians of the reserve
shall desire it.
Her Majesty further agrees with Her said Indians that within the boundary of Indian reserves, until otherwise enacted by
the proper legislative authority, no intoxicating liquor shall be allowed to be introduced or sold, and all laws now in force
or hereafter to be enacted to preserve Her Indian subjects inhabiting the reserves or living elsewhere within Her North-
West Territories, from the evil influence of the use of intoxicating liquors, shall be strictly enforced.
And further, that Her Majesty’s Commissioner shall, as soon as possible after the execution of this treaty, cause to be
taken an accurate census of all the Indians inhabiting the tract above described, distributing them in families, and shall in
every year ensuing the date hereof, at some period during the month of August in each year to be duly notified to the
Indians, and at or near their respective reserves, pay to each Indian family of five persons the sum of fifteen dollars,
Canadian currency, or in like proportion for a larger or smaller family, such payment to be made in such articles as the
Indians shall require of blankets, clothing, prints (assorted colours), twine or traps, at the current cash price in Montreal,
or otherwise, if Her Majesty shall deem the same desirable in the interest of Her Indian people, in cash.
And the undersigned Chiefs, on their own behalf and on behalf of all other Indians inhabiting the tract within ceded, do
hereby solemnly promise and engage to strictly observe this treaty, and also to conduct and behave themselves as good
and loyal subjects of Her Majesty the Queen. They promise and engage that they will in all respects obey and abide by the
law; that they will maintain peace and good order between each other, and also between themselves and other tribes of
Signed, sealed and delivered in the presence of, the same
having been first read and explained:
ADAMS G. ARCHIBALD, Lieut.-Gov. of Man. and N.W.
Territories.
JAMES McKAY, P.L.C.
A. G. IRVINE, Major
ABRAHAM COWLEY,
DONALD GUNN, M.L.C.
THOMAS HOWARD, P.S.
HENRY COCHRANE,
JAMES McARRISTER,
HUGH McARRISTER,
E. ALICE ARCHIBALD,
HENRI BOUTHILLIER.
WEMYSS M. SIMPSON, [L.S.] Indian Commissioner,
MIS-KOO-KEE-NEW, or RED EAGLE (HENRY PRINCE),
his x mark
KA-KE-KA-PENAIS (or BIRD FOR EVER), WILLIAM
PENNEFATHER,
his x mark
NA-SHA-KE-PENNAIS, or FLYING DOWN BIRD,
his x mark
NA-HA-WA-NANAN, or CENTRE OF BIRD’S TAIL, his x mark
KE-WE-TAY-ASH, or FLYINGROUND,
his x mark
WA-KO-WUSH, or WHIP-POOR-WILL,
his x mark
OO-ZA-WE-KWUN, or YELLOW QUILL,
his x mark
ème
os
In the presence of the following:
ALEX. MORRIS, L.G. [S.L.]
JAMES McKAY.
JAMES F. GRAHAM.
ISAAC COWIE.
FRANCIS FIELD.
JOHN A. DAVIDSON.
CHARLES WOOD.
Representing East-Manitoba or Elm Point:
SON-SONSE,
chief, his x mark
NA-KA-NA-WA-TANG,
his x mark.
PA-PA-WE-GUN-WA-TAK,
his x mark.
Councillors.
Representing Fairford Prairie:
MA-SAH-KEE-YASH,
chief, his x mark.
DAVID MARSDEN,
Councillor, his x mark.
JOSEPH SUMNER,
Councillor, his x mark
Representing Fairford Prairie:
RICHARD WOODHOUSE, chief.
JOHN ANDERSON, Councillor.
JOHN THOMPSON,
Councillor, his x mark
Formerly Crane River and now Ebb and Flow Lake:
PENAISE,
chief, his x mark
(son of deceased Broken Finger.)
BAPTISTE,
Councillor, his x mark.
KAH-NEE-QUA-NASH,
Councillor, his x mark.
Representing Water Hen Band:
KA-TAH-KAK-WA-NA-YAAS,
chief, his x mark.
WA-WAH-KOW-WEK-AH-POW,
Councillor, his x mark.
Representing Turtle River and Valley River and Riding
Mountain:
KEE-SICK-KOO-WE-NIN,
chief, his x mark.
(in place of Mekis, dead.)
KEE-SAY-KEE-SICK,
Councillor, his x mark.
NOS-QUASH,
brave, his x mark.
BAPTISTE,
brave, his x mark.
Representing the St. Peter’s Band:
MIS-KOO-KE-NEW, (or Red Eagle),
his x mark.
MA-TWA-KA-KEE-TOOT,
his x mark.
I-AND-WAY-WAY,
his x mark.
MA-KO-ME-WE-KUN,
his x mark.
AS-SHO-AH-MEY,
his x mark.
Signed near Fort Alexander, on the Indian Reserve, the
twenty-third day of August in the year of Our Lord one
thousand eight hundred and seventy-five.
Witnesses:
J.A.N. PROVENCHER, Indian Commissioner.
J. DUBUC
A. DUBUC
JOSEPH MONKMAN, Interpreter.
WM. LOUNT.
H.L. REYNOLDS.
KAKEKEPENAIS, ou WILLIAM PENNEFATHER,
his x mark
JOSEPH KENT,
his x mark
PETANAQUAGE, ou HENRY VANE,
his x mark
Signed at Broken Head River,
the twenty-eighth day of August, in the year of our Lord
one thousand eight hundred and seventy-five.
Witnesses:
J.A.N. PROVENCHER,
Indian Commissioner.
J. DUBUC.
H.L. REYNOLDS.
DANIEL DEVLIN.
HENRY COOK.
PETER HENDERSON,
his x mark
KAY-PAYAHSINISK,
his x mark
NASHAKEPENAIS,
his x mark
AHKEESEEKWASKEMG,
his x mark
NAYWAHEHEEKEEGIK,
his x mark
MAYJAHKEEGEEQUAN,
his x mark
PAYSAUGA,
his x mark
Signed on the reserve at Rosseau River,
8th day of September, 1875.
J.A.N. PROVENCHER, Indian Commissioner.
Witness:
JAS. F. GRAHAM.
MA-NA-WA-NANAN, (or CENTRE OF BIRD’S TAIL),
Chief, his x mark
KE-WE-SAY-ASH, (or FLYING ROUND),
Chief, his x mark
WA-KOO-WUSH, (or WHIPPOORWILL),
Chief, his x mark
OSAH-WEE-KA-KAY,
Councillor, his x mark
OSAYS-KOO-KOON,
Councillor, his x mark
SHAY-WAY-ASH,
Councillor, his x mark
SHE-SHE-PENSE,
Councillor, his x mark
MA-MAH-TAK-CUM-E-CUP,
Councillor, his x mark
PAH-TE-CU-WEE-NINN,
Councillor, his x mark
KAK-KA-QUIN-IASH,
Brave, his x mark
ANA-WAY-WEE-TIN,
Brave, sa x marque.
TIBIS-QUO-GE-SICK,
Brave, his x mark
NE-SHO-TA,
Brave, sa x marque.
NAT-TEE-KEE-GET,
Brave, sa x marque.

Part III – Over the past two weeks, healthcare in the province of Saskatchewan has been a major topic of political discussion and public attention. Provincial leaders, healthcare workers, and opposition parties have all weighed in on the state of the system, particularly regarding staffing shortages, wait times, and access to care. The most significant development during this period has been the announcement of a new provincial strategy intended to improve healthcare services across Saskatchewan.

In early March 2026, the Saskatchewan government introduced a new initiative called the “Patients First Health Care Plan.” Premier Scott Moe and Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill stated that the plan aims to improve access to medical services and address ongoing pressures in the provincial healthcare system. The strategy includes investments in staffing, expanded training programs, and the development of new healthcare facilities and services. According to government statements, the plan is designed to ensure patients receive the “right care at the right place at the right time.”

One of the key elements of the plan is the expansion of urgent care centres across the province. Facilities already exist or are being developed in major cities such as Regina and Saskatoon, and additional centres are expected in communities such as Prince Albert and North Battleford. These centres are intended to treat non-life-threatening conditions and reduce the pressure on hospital emergency departments, which have faced crowding and long wait times in recent years.

Another major component of the provincial plan focuses on reducing wait times for medical procedures. The government has set targets to reduce surgical wait times to approximately three months and diagnostic testing wait times to about two months by 2028. To help meet these goals, Saskatchewan plans to expand diagnostic services and allow more publicly funded surgeries to take place in private surgical clinics. Supporters argue that these changes could speed up treatment, while critics worry about the increasing role of private facilities in the healthcare system.

Despite the new announcements, healthcare remains politically contentious in Saskatchewan. Opposition parties argue that many of the current problems in the healthcare system—such as shortages of doctors and nurses—have existed for years and require deeper structural solutions. Critics also note that a significant number of residents still lack access to a family physician, with some estimates suggesting that hundreds of thousands of people in the province may not have a regular primary-care provider.

In addition to workforce shortages, hospital capacity remains a concern. Reports continue to highlight situations in which patients are treated in hallways or waiting rooms due to a lack of available beds in major hospitals. Rural communities have also experienced disruptions in services when emergency departments temporarily close because staff are unavailable. These issues have contributed to public frustration and ongoing debate about the direction of healthcare policy in the province.

The provincial government has emphasized that recruitment and training are central to solving these challenges. Efforts include expanding medical and nursing education opportunities, hiring additional healthcare workers, and introducing new care models such as virtual healthcare visits. These digital consultations could improve access for residents in rural and remote communities, where finding a local physician can be particularly difficult.

Overall, the past two weeks have highlighted both the challenges and the reform efforts within Saskatchewan’s healthcare system. The new “Patients First” strategy represents the government’s attempt to address longstanding concerns about access, staffing, and wait times. However, debates about how best to strengthen the healthcare system—particularly regarding workforce shortages and the use of private clinics—are likely to continue as the plan moves forward.

Part III – Over the past two weeks, healthcare in the province of Saskatchewan has been a major topic of political discussion and public attention. Provincial leaders, healthcare workers, and opposition parties have all weighed in on the state of the system, particularly regarding staffing shortages, wait times, and access to care. The most significant development during this period has been the announcement of a new provincial strategy intended to improve healthcare services across Saskatchewan.

In early March 2026, the Saskatchewan government introduced a new initiative called the “Patients First Health Care Plan.” Premier Scott Moe and Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill stated that the plan aims to improve access to medical services and address ongoing pressures in the provincial healthcare system. The strategy includes investments in staffing, expanded training programs, and the development of new healthcare facilities and services. According to government statements, the plan is designed to ensure patients receive the “right care at the right place at the right time.”

One of the key elements of the plan is the expansion of urgent care centres across the province. Facilities already exist or are being developed in major cities such as Regina and Saskatoon, and additional centres are expected in communities such as Prince Albert and North Battleford. These centres are intended to treat non-life-threatening conditions and reduce the pressure on hospital emergency departments, which have faced crowding and long wait times in recent years.

Another major component of the provincial plan focuses on reducing wait times for medical procedures. The government has set targets to reduce surgical wait times to approximately three months and diagnostic testing wait times to about two months by 2028. To help meet these goals, Saskatchewan plans to expand diagnostic services and allow more publicly funded surgeries to take place in private surgical clinics. Supporters argue that these changes could speed up treatment, while critics worry about the increasing role of private facilities in the healthcare system.

Despite the new announcements, healthcare remains politically contentious in Saskatchewan. Opposition parties argue that many of the current problems in the healthcare system—such as shortages of doctors and nurses—have existed for years and require deeper structural solutions. Critics also note that a significant number of residents still lack access to a family physician, with some estimates suggesting that hundreds of thousands of people in the province may not have a regular primary-care provider.

In addition to workforce shortages, hospital capacity remains a concern. Reports continue to highlight situations in which patients are treated in hallways or waiting rooms due to a lack of available beds in major hospitals. Rural communities have also experienced disruptions in services when emergency departments temporarily close because staff are unavailable. These issues have contributed to public frustration and ongoing debate about the direction of healthcare policy in the province.

The provincial government has emphasized that recruitment and training are central to solving these challenges. Efforts include expanding medical and nursing education opportunities, hiring additional healthcare workers, and introducing new care models such as virtual healthcare visits. These digital consultations could improve access for residents in rural and remote communities, where finding a local physician can be particularly difficult.

Overall, the past two weeks have highlighted both the challenges and the reform efforts within Saskatchewan’s healthcare system. The new “Patients First” strategy represents the government’s attempt to address longstanding concerns about access, staffing, and wait times. However, debates about how best to strengthen the healthcare system—particularly regarding workforce shortages and the use of private clinics—are likely to continue as the plan moves forward.

Treaties 1 Placeholder – Over the past two weeks, healthcare in the province of Saskatchewan has been a major topic of political discussion and public attention. Provincial leaders, healthcare workers, and opposition parties have all weighed in on the state of the system, particularly regarding staffing shortages, wait times, and access to care. The most significant development during this period has been the announcement of a new provincial strategy intended to improve healthcare services across Saskatchewan.

In early March 2026, the Saskatchewan government introduced a new initiative called the “Patients First Health Care Plan.” Premier Scott Moe and Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill stated that the plan aims to improve access to medical services and address ongoing pressures in the provincial healthcare system. The strategy includes investments in staffing, expanded training programs, and the development of new healthcare facilities and services. According to government statements, the plan is designed to ensure patients receive the “right care at the right place at the right time.”

One of the key elements of the plan is the expansion of urgent care centres across the province. Facilities already exist or are being developed in major cities such as Regina and Saskatoon, and additional centres are expected in communities such as Prince Albert and North Battleford. These centres are intended to treat non-life-threatening conditions and reduce the pressure on hospital emergency departments, which have faced crowding and long wait times in recent years.

Another major component of the provincial plan focuses on reducing wait times for medical procedures. The government has set targets to reduce surgical wait times to approximately three months and diagnostic testing wait times to about two months by 2028. To help meet these goals, Saskatchewan plans to expand diagnostic services and allow more publicly funded surgeries to take place in private surgical clinics. Supporters argue that these changes could speed up treatment, while critics worry about the increasing role of private facilities in the healthcare system.

Despite the new announcements, healthcare remains politically contentious in Saskatchewan. Opposition parties argue that many of the current problems in the healthcare system—such as shortages of doctors and nurses—have existed for years and require deeper structural solutions. Critics also note that a significant number of residents still lack access to a family physician, with some estimates suggesting that hundreds of thousands of people in the province may not have a regular primary-care provider.

In addition to workforce shortages, hospital capacity remains a concern. Reports continue to highlight situations in which patients are treated in hallways or waiting rooms due to a lack of available beds in major hospitals. Rural communities have also experienced disruptions in services when emergency departments temporarily close because staff are unavailable. These issues have contributed to public frustration and ongoing debate about the direction of healthcare policy in the province.

The provincial government has emphasized that recruitment and training are central to solving these challenges. Efforts include expanding medical and nursing education opportunities, hiring additional healthcare workers, and introducing new care models such as virtual healthcare visits. These digital consultations could improve access for residents in rural and remote communities, where finding a local physician can be particularly difficult.

Overall, the past two weeks have highlighted both the challenges and the reform efforts within Saskatchewan’s healthcare system. The new “Patients First” strategy represents the government’s attempt to address longstanding concerns about access, staffing, and wait times. However, debates about how best to strengthen the healthcare system—particularly regarding workforce shortages and the use of private clinics—are likely to continue as the plan moves forward.

Treaties 1 Placeholder – Over the past two weeks, healthcare in the province of Saskatchewan has been a major topic of political discussion and public attention. Provincial leaders, healthcare workers, and opposition parties have all weighed in on the state of the system, particularly regarding staffing shortages, wait times, and access to care. The most significant development during this period has been the announcement of a new provincial strategy intended to improve healthcare services across Saskatchewan.

In early March 2026, the Saskatchewan government introduced a new initiative called the “Patients First Health Care Plan.” Premier Scott Moe and Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill stated that the plan aims to improve access to medical services and address ongoing pressures in the provincial healthcare system. The strategy includes investments in staffing, expanded training programs, and the development of new healthcare facilities and services. According to government statements, the plan is designed to ensure patients receive the “right care at the right place at the right time.”

One of the key elements of the plan is the expansion of urgent care centres across the province. Facilities already exist or are being developed in major cities such as Regina and Saskatoon, and additional centres are expected in communities such as Prince Albert and North Battleford. These centres are intended to treat non-life-threatening conditions and reduce the pressure on hospital emergency departments, which have faced crowding and long wait times in recent years.

Another major component of the provincial plan focuses on reducing wait times for medical procedures. The government has set targets to reduce surgical wait times to approximately three months and diagnostic testing wait times to about two months by 2028. To help meet these goals, Saskatchewan plans to expand diagnostic services and allow more publicly funded surgeries to take place in private surgical clinics. Supporters argue that these changes could speed up treatment, while critics worry about the increasing role of private facilities in the healthcare system.

Despite the new announcements, healthcare remains politically contentious in Saskatchewan. Opposition parties argue that many of the current problems in the healthcare system—such as shortages of doctors and nurses—have existed for years and require deeper structural solutions. Critics also note that a significant number of residents still lack access to a family physician, with some estimates suggesting that hundreds of thousands of people in the province may not have a regular primary-care provider.

In addition to workforce shortages, hospital capacity remains a concern. Reports continue to highlight situations in which patients are treated in hallways or waiting rooms due to a lack of available beds in major hospitals. Rural communities have also experienced disruptions in services when emergency departments temporarily close because staff are unavailable. These issues have contributed to public frustration and ongoing debate about the direction of healthcare policy in the province.

The provincial government has emphasized that recruitment and training are central to solving these challenges. Efforts include expanding medical and nursing education opportunities, hiring additional healthcare workers, and introducing new care models such as virtual healthcare visits. These digital consultations could improve access for residents in rural and remote communities, where finding a local physician can be particularly difficult.

Overall, the past two weeks have highlighted both the challenges and the reform efforts within Saskatchewan’s healthcare system. The new “Patients First” strategy represents the government’s attempt to address longstanding concerns about access, staffing, and wait times. However, debates about how best to strengthen the healthcare system—particularly regarding workforce shortages and the use of private clinics—are likely to continue as the plan moves forward.

Treaties 1 Placeholder – Over the past two weeks, healthcare in the province of Saskatchewan has been a major topic of political discussion and public attention. Provincial leaders, healthcare workers, and opposition parties have all weighed in on the state of the system, particularly regarding staffing shortages, wait times, and access to care. The most significant development during this period has been the announcement of a new provincial strategy intended to improve healthcare services across Saskatchewan.

In early March 2026, the Saskatchewan government introduced a new initiative called the “Patients First Health Care Plan.” Premier Scott Moe and Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill stated that the plan aims to improve access to medical services and address ongoing pressures in the provincial healthcare system. The strategy includes investments in staffing, expanded training programs, and the development of new healthcare facilities and services. According to government statements, the plan is designed to ensure patients receive the “right care at the right place at the right time.”

One of the key elements of the plan is the expansion of urgent care centres across the province. Facilities already exist or are being developed in major cities such as Regina and Saskatoon, and additional centres are expected in communities such as Prince Albert and North Battleford. These centres are intended to treat non-life-threatening conditions and reduce the pressure on hospital emergency departments, which have faced crowding and long wait times in recent years.

Another major component of the provincial plan focuses on reducing wait times for medical procedures. The government has set targets to reduce surgical wait times to approximately three months and diagnostic testing wait times to about two months by 2028. To help meet these goals, Saskatchewan plans to expand diagnostic services and allow more publicly funded surgeries to take place in private surgical clinics. Supporters argue that these changes could speed up treatment, while critics worry about the increasing role of private facilities in the healthcare system.

Despite the new announcements, healthcare remains politically contentious in Saskatchewan. Opposition parties argue that many of the current problems in the healthcare system—such as shortages of doctors and nurses—have existed for years and require deeper structural solutions. Critics also note that a significant number of residents still lack access to a family physician, with some estimates suggesting that hundreds of thousands of people in the province may not have a regular primary-care provider.

In addition to workforce shortages, hospital capacity remains a concern. Reports continue to highlight situations in which patients are treated in hallways or waiting rooms due to a lack of available beds in major hospitals. Rural communities have also experienced disruptions in services when emergency departments temporarily close because staff are unavailable. These issues have contributed to public frustration and ongoing debate about the direction of healthcare policy in the province.

The provincial government has emphasized that recruitment and training are central to solving these challenges. Efforts include expanding medical and nursing education opportunities, hiring additional healthcare workers, and introducing new care models such as virtual healthcare visits. These digital consultations could improve access for residents in rural and remote communities, where finding a local physician can be particularly difficult.

Overall, the past two weeks have highlighted both the challenges and the reform efforts within Saskatchewan’s healthcare system. The new “Patients First” strategy represents the government’s attempt to address longstanding concerns about access, staffing, and wait times. However, debates about how best to strengthen the healthcare system—particularly regarding workforce shortages and the use of private clinics—are likely to continue as the plan moves forward.

Treaties 1 Placeholder – Over the past two weeks, healthcare in the province of Saskatchewan has been a major topic of political discussion and public attention. Provincial leaders, healthcare workers, and opposition parties have all weighed in on the state of the system, particularly regarding staffing shortages, wait times, and access to care. The most significant development during this period has been the announcement of a new provincial strategy intended to improve healthcare services across Saskatchewan.

In early March 2026, the Saskatchewan government introduced a new initiative called the “Patients First Health Care Plan.” Premier Scott Moe and Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill stated that the plan aims to improve access to medical services and address ongoing pressures in the provincial healthcare system. The strategy includes investments in staffing, expanded training programs, and the development of new healthcare facilities and services. According to government statements, the plan is designed to ensure patients receive the “right care at the right place at the right time.”

One of the key elements of the plan is the expansion of urgent care centres across the province. Facilities already exist or are being developed in major cities such as Regina and Saskatoon, and additional centres are expected in communities such as Prince Albert and North Battleford. These centres are intended to treat non-life-threatening conditions and reduce the pressure on hospital emergency departments, which have faced crowding and long wait times in recent years.

Another major component of the provincial plan focuses on reducing wait times for medical procedures. The government has set targets to reduce surgical wait times to approximately three months and diagnostic testing wait times to about two months by 2028. To help meet these goals, Saskatchewan plans to expand diagnostic services and allow more publicly funded surgeries to take place in private surgical clinics. Supporters argue that these changes could speed up treatment, while critics worry about the increasing role of private facilities in the healthcare system.

Despite the new announcements, healthcare remains politically contentious in Saskatchewan. Opposition parties argue that many of the current problems in the healthcare system—such as shortages of doctors and nurses—have existed for years and require deeper structural solutions. Critics also note that a significant number of residents still lack access to a family physician, with some estimates suggesting that hundreds of thousands of people in the province may not have a regular primary-care provider.

In addition to workforce shortages, hospital capacity remains a concern. Reports continue to highlight situations in which patients are treated in hallways or waiting rooms due to a lack of available beds in major hospitals. Rural communities have also experienced disruptions in services when emergency departments temporarily close because staff are unavailable. These issues have contributed to public frustration and ongoing debate about the direction of healthcare policy in the province.

The provincial government has emphasized that recruitment and training are central to solving these challenges. Efforts include expanding medical and nursing education opportunities, hiring additional healthcare workers, and introducing new care models such as virtual healthcare visits. These digital consultations could improve access for residents in rural and remote communities, where finding a local physician can be particularly difficult.

Overall, the past two weeks have highlighted both the challenges and the reform efforts within Saskatchewan’s healthcare system. The new “Patients First” strategy represents the government’s attempt to address longstanding concerns about access, staffing, and wait times. However, debates about how best to strengthen the healthcare system—particularly regarding workforce shortages and the use of private clinics—are likely to continue as the plan moves forward.

Treaties 1 Placeholder – Over the past two weeks, healthcare in the province of Saskatchewan has been a major topic of political discussion and public attention. Provincial leaders, healthcare workers, and opposition parties have all weighed in on the state of the system, particularly regarding staffing shortages, wait times, and access to care. The most significant development during this period has been the announcement of a new provincial strategy intended to improve healthcare services across Saskatchewan.

In early March 2026, the Saskatchewan government introduced a new initiative called the “Patients First Health Care Plan.” Premier Scott Moe and Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill stated that the plan aims to improve access to medical services and address ongoing pressures in the provincial healthcare system. The strategy includes investments in staffing, expanded training programs, and the development of new healthcare facilities and services. According to government statements, the plan is designed to ensure patients receive the “right care at the right place at the right time.”

One of the key elements of the plan is the expansion of urgent care centres across the province. Facilities already exist or are being developed in major cities such as Regina and Saskatoon, and additional centres are expected in communities such as Prince Albert and North Battleford. These centres are intended to treat non-life-threatening conditions and reduce the pressure on hospital emergency departments, which have faced crowding and long wait times in recent years.

Another major component of the provincial plan focuses on reducing wait times for medical procedures. The government has set targets to reduce surgical wait times to approximately three months and diagnostic testing wait times to about two months by 2028. To help meet these goals, Saskatchewan plans to expand diagnostic services and allow more publicly funded surgeries to take place in private surgical clinics. Supporters argue that these changes could speed up treatment, while critics worry about the increasing role of private facilities in the healthcare system.

Despite the new announcements, healthcare remains politically contentious in Saskatchewan. Opposition parties argue that many of the current problems in the healthcare system—such as shortages of doctors and nurses—have existed for years and require deeper structural solutions. Critics also note that a significant number of residents still lack access to a family physician, with some estimates suggesting that hundreds of thousands of people in the province may not have a regular primary-care provider.

In addition to workforce shortages, hospital capacity remains a concern. Reports continue to highlight situations in which patients are treated in hallways or waiting rooms due to a lack of available beds in major hospitals. Rural communities have also experienced disruptions in services when emergency departments temporarily close because staff are unavailable. These issues have contributed to public frustration and ongoing debate about the direction of healthcare policy in the province.

The provincial government has emphasized that recruitment and training are central to solving these challenges. Efforts include expanding medical and nursing education opportunities, hiring additional healthcare workers, and introducing new care models such as virtual healthcare visits. These digital consultations could improve access for residents in rural and remote communities, where finding a local physician can be particularly difficult.

Overall, the past two weeks have highlighted both the challenges and the reform efforts within Saskatchewan’s healthcare system. The new “Patients First” strategy represents the government’s attempt to address longstanding concerns about access, staffing, and wait times. However, debates about how best to strengthen the healthcare system—particularly regarding workforce shortages and the use of private clinics—are likely to continue as the plan moves forward.

Treaties 1 Placeholder – Over the past two weeks, healthcare in the province of Saskatchewan has been a major topic of political discussion and public attention. Provincial leaders, healthcare workers, and opposition parties have all weighed in on the state of the system, particularly regarding staffing shortages, wait times, and access to care. The most significant development during this period has been the announcement of a new provincial strategy intended to improve healthcare services across Saskatchewan.

In early March 2026, the Saskatchewan government introduced a new initiative called the “Patients First Health Care Plan.” Premier Scott Moe and Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill stated that the plan aims to improve access to medical services and address ongoing pressures in the provincial healthcare system. The strategy includes investments in staffing, expanded training programs, and the development of new healthcare facilities and services. According to government statements, the plan is designed to ensure patients receive the “right care at the right place at the right time.”

One of the key elements of the plan is the expansion of urgent care centres across the province. Facilities already exist or are being developed in major cities such as Regina and Saskatoon, and additional centres are expected in communities such as Prince Albert and North Battleford. These centres are intended to treat non-life-threatening conditions and reduce the pressure on hospital emergency departments, which have faced crowding and long wait times in recent years.

Another major component of the provincial plan focuses on reducing wait times for medical procedures. The government has set targets to reduce surgical wait times to approximately three months and diagnostic testing wait times to about two months by 2028. To help meet these goals, Saskatchewan plans to expand diagnostic services and allow more publicly funded surgeries to take place in private surgical clinics. Supporters argue that these changes could speed up treatment, while critics worry about the increasing role of private facilities in the healthcare system.

Despite the new announcements, healthcare remains politically contentious in Saskatchewan. Opposition parties argue that many of the current problems in the healthcare system—such as shortages of doctors and nurses—have existed for years and require deeper structural solutions. Critics also note that a significant number of residents still lack access to a family physician, with some estimates suggesting that hundreds of thousands of people in the province may not have a regular primary-care provider.

In addition to workforce shortages, hospital capacity remains a concern. Reports continue to highlight situations in which patients are treated in hallways or waiting rooms due to a lack of available beds in major hospitals. Rural communities have also experienced disruptions in services when emergency departments temporarily close because staff are unavailable. These issues have contributed to public frustration and ongoing debate about the direction of healthcare policy in the province.

The provincial government has emphasized that recruitment and training are central to solving these challenges. Efforts include expanding medical and nursing education opportunities, hiring additional healthcare workers, and introducing new care models such as virtual healthcare visits. These digital consultations could improve access for residents in rural and remote communities, where finding a local physician can be particularly difficult.

Overall, the past two weeks have highlighted both the challenges and the reform efforts within Saskatchewan’s healthcare system. The new “Patients First” strategy represents the government’s attempt to address longstanding concerns about access, staffing, and wait times. However, debates about how best to strengthen the healthcare system—particularly regarding workforce shortages and the use of private clinics—are likely to continue as the plan moves forward.