Bruce County and Saugeen Ojibway Nation (SON) have reached an out-of-court agreement, settling Bruce County’s involvement in SON’s long-standing legal action in relation to parts of the Saugeen (Bruce) Peninsula.

This agreement is a positive step towards fostering further cooperation and reconciliation between Bruce County and SON, read a joint media release December 9, and settles a claim that SON launched 25 years ago.

The claim went to trial in 2019 and following several years of discussions the settlement includes the transfer of approximately 306 acres of County Forest within the Lindsay Tract and Amabel Tract. The full terms of the settlement are confidential, and the parties are working together to satisfy the conditions contained therein.

"SON continues to pursue its legal claim against the federal, provincial, and other municipal governments," read the release, adding that Grey County and the Town of Saugeen Shores have also successfully reached agreements with SON.

“Through collaboration with SON friends and partners, we have reached a resolution that brings closure to this long-standing claim,” said Bruce County Warden Janice Jackson, calling the agreement "a positive step foward."

Chippewas of Saugeen First Nation Chief Lester Anoquot said SON is looking forward to moving forward with their neighbours in the spirit of reconciliation. “Finalizing the settlement agreement with Bruce County, including the return of ~300 acres of County Forest, is an important part of the path toward reconciliation," Anoquot said.

“While there remains much work to be done, this settlement with Bruce County is a positive step toward reconciliation and building better, stronger relationships in our Territory," said Chief Veronica Smith, Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation.

Bruce County Council is expected to formalize the land transfer at the January 13 meeting.