Overview
- The Algonquin First Nation filed the action in Quebec Superior Court on Oct. 29, asserting Aboriginal title across eight defined areas of western Quebec.
- The claim maps islands in the Ottawa River, Gatineau Park with adjoining Gatineau lands, two Gatineau RCM harvesting zones, the Papineau-Labelle Wildlife Reserve, and the Baskatong Reservoir linked to 1927 dam flooding.
- The suit seeks $5 billion from Canada, Quebec, Hydro-Québec and the Crown corporation for the National Capital Region, plus declarations that Crown promises from the 1760 Treaty of Swegatchy and the 1763 Royal Proclamation were breached.
- Chief Jean-Guy Whiteduck says meaningful reconciliation requires Algonquin decision-making over water, wildlife and forestry in the territory.
- The filing targets only government-owned or managed lands, and the departments and Crown corporations named had not provided comment at publication.