Esk’etemc’s Landmark Settlement Acknowledges Loss Of Their Water Rights

Esk’etemc, formerly known as the Alkali Lake Indian Band, negotiated a landmark settlement with the Federal Government of Canada.

They received in excess of $147 million dollars acknowledging the loss of water rights and hardship suffered by generations of Esk’etemc people.

Since 2003 the community has been pressing Canada through the Specific Claims process to acknowledge the breach of its fiduciary duties to the Esk’etemc by not obtaining and safeguarding their water rights, water records and dam, and preventing it from constructing an irrigation ditch.

Over 20 years ago a Specific Claim for the alienation of water rights was first submitted by Esk’etemc to Canada’s Specific Claims Branch.

“The settlement process has been a long process for our people, and we are proud of the work that has been done to prove the loss of our rights,” Kukpi7 Fred Robbins stated in a release, “My dad, who was on our Band’s Council for over 20 years is not here today to see the successful outcome of this Specific Claim.”

The next step is for the Esk’etemc to determine how to utilize the settlement, a large responsibility being shared by the community, a Tsqewt Community Planning group, plus Kukpi7 and Council.

“This settlement will allow us to plan for a better future for our community, our children, our Elders, and generations to come. It will give us a chance to heal and is a step toward reconciliation,” Robbins said.