PRINCE ALBERT, SASKATCHEWAN, CANADA – Lac La Ronge Indian Band and Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation, have launched a class action lawsuit on behalf of Treaty 6 First Nations against the Government of Canada, asserting breaches of Treaty 6 and the honour of the Crown.
The class action centres on two pivotal provisions within Treaty 6 – the “pestilence” and “medicine
chest” clauses – which mandate Canada to provide support and medical care to First Nations.
According to the lawsuit, Canada’s ongoing failure to effectively assist First Nations in combating
the opioid epidemic is in breach of these provisions.
The lawsuit also asserts that Canada breached the honour of the Crown by making a deal with
Purdue Canada that gave Canada a preferential allocation of Purdue Canada’s remaining assets.
The deal was made after Purdue Canada was pledged to help fund Purdue Pharma’s US bankruptcy
plan, and thus obstructs First Nations’ ability to collect on their own claims against Purdue Canada.
The legality of the US bankruptcy plan, which is scheduled to be determined by the United States
Supreme Court in December, is also being opposed by First Nations and Canadian municipalities
who stand to lose out on Canada’s compromise with Purdue and the Sackler family.
To remedy these breaches, First Nations request that Canada consult with them and fund an opioid
abatement plan that covers emergency assistance, treatment programs, family and social services,
community outreach, addiction support, and incorporates traditional Indigenous healing practices.
This lawsuit underscores the urgent need for Canada to address the challenges faced by Indigenous
communities and highlights the collective determination of Treaty 6 First Nations to seek redress
for the harm caused by the opioid epidemic.
Chief Tammy Cook-Searson of the Lac La Ronge Indian Band commented: “Our communities
have suffered devastating loss due to the opioid epidemic. This lawsuit is a crucial step towards
addressing the harm caused and ensuring a brighter future for our people.”
Chief Karen Bird of Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation added: “We stand united in our pursuit of justice
and respect for our Treaty rights. It is essential that the Government of Canada fulfills its
commitments to our communities, ensuring our people’s health and safety.”
For additional information, please contact Casey R. Churko at cchurko@napolilaw.com.
