Manitoba Government Signing Memorandum of Understanding for Forestry Revenue Sharing With Mosakahiken Cree Nation and Opaskwayak Cree Nation

Manitoba Natural Resources and Northern Development Minister Greg Nesbitt announced on Tuesday (8-2-22) that during the week, thanks to combined efforts, the Manitoba government is signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Mosakahiken Cree Nation (MCN) and finalizing another MOU with Opaskwayak Cree Nation (OCN).

Under these agreements, Manitoba will share up to 45 percent of the dues collected for timber harvested in proximity to Mosakahiken Cree Nation and Opaskwayak Cree Nation, respectively. Timber dues revenue collected since January 1, 2022, and up to June 30, 2024, will be within scope of the pilot agreement.

Canadian Kraft Paper, Louisiana Pacific, and Spruce Products Ltd are the largest forestry operations in Manitoba, with approximately 1,450 direct jobs in Swan River and The Pas. Between 25 to 38 percent of these jobs are held by individuals from Indigenous communities.

Last year, the Manitoba government allocated more than $1 million towards grants to support key economic development activities, including $200,000 to improve the viability of Manitoba’s forest sector by encouraging enhanced Indigenous participation in the forest economy.