By Nigel Maxwell

Local First Nation continues to wait for money

Aug 7, 2011 | 3:54 PM

For nearly 10 years, a local First Nation has been waiting for a response.

In 2001, the Beardy's Okemasis First Nation filed a claim seeking $4 million dollars from the federal government.

Band members said they were wrongfully denied their $5 annuity payments.

Those payments were withheld by the government from 1885 to 1888, because the band was accused of taking part in the Riel Rebellion.

“Chief Beardy–this is according to the elders testimony–didn't want to participate in that rebellion. He didn't want anything to do with it,” said band elder Angus Esperance.

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Esperance and others formulated the research for the claim. Over the course of five years, he took several trips to the national archives in Ottawa.

He said the money they are seeking is based on compounded interest. He did not want to talk further about the money for fear it may jeopardize their claim. He said he is hoping the process moves faster.

“The money may not seem like much nowadays, but back then it meant a lot to the families,” said Esperance.

He said he continues to wait patiently for a resolution.

“Well it's still ongoing yes, but now not as bad because our First Nations leaders are well educated nowadays…not like 135 years ago,” said Esperance.

“I started this 15 or 16 years ago but I am going to carry on. I will retire after everything is completed,” he said.

nmaxwell@panow.com