Ermineskin Cree Nation 60 Million Settlement Frequently asked Questions
Question #1: How much of the 60 million is going to Lawyers?
Answer: None. There is no requirement to pay a portion to legal costs under the Settlement Agreement. Lawyers for ECN working on this matter are paid for their qualified professional services under a specific ECN budget.
Question # 2: What happens if we vote no?
Answer: The Settlement Agreement would become subject to possible further negotiation or more likely trial with Canada. These would both be costly and time-consuming, and could result in Ermineskin receiving less money or no money at all. This Settlement Agreement is related to an action brought in 1993 and started out with many issues to resolve in the overall claim.
Question #3: How will the money be distributed?
Answer: Council worked together to come to a consensus on the allocation of the 60 million. There would be an allocation of 10% to the Neyaskweyahk Trust, 20% PCD, and 70% to immediate needs/operations/programs and services of the Nation upon a successful ratification vote and acceptance of the 60 million as payment from Canada.
Question #4: Where will voting take place?
Answer: Voting will take place on November 30 at the NOK building for in person poll from 9 am to 8 pm.
Voters will also be able to vote online by registering online starting November 23, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. Eligible voters who wish to vote by virtual process will be asked to register at https://efdx.ca/ecn. Please provide picture identification. Virtual voting will end at noon on Nov 30.
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