FIRSTFIRST NATIONSNATIONS TRUSTTRUST

2007-2008 ANNUAL REPORT

MESSAGE FROM THE TRUST CHAIRPERSON

A lot of water has flowed under the bridge since 1994 and the signing of the first Gaming Agreement. The establishment of the First Nations Trust, followed by the appointment of the Trustees who accepted the responsibilities of the Trust Indenture, happened in 2003. Since then the Board of Trustees has worked diligently to develop policy that ensures accountability for the beneficiaries and the Trust.

The First Nations Trust is committed to providing the highest standard of service. The Trustees endeavour to maintain an open door approach ensuring that questions have answers and that assistance is there for those who request help to work with the gaming funds. A key ingredient in making our Trust team effective is the coordination and the support received from staff. We have a highly qualified professional staff providing excellent advice and research to the Trustees, which leads to sound decision-making.

During the past year, the staff began focusing on proactive measures with newly elected First Nation Councils. Any new Council is welcome to request an orientation on the gaming profits distributed by the First Nations Trust and the responsibilities of the Trust. This measure in itself provides a healthy start to working relationships between the Trust and band administrators and their Councils. We have experienced positive developments with First Nations, characterized by such dialogue.

The Trust team has had the satisfaction of seeing growth and development in First Nations communities, highlighted by initiatives such as the housing project at Fishing Lake First Nation, lunch programs in English River First Nation and White Bear First Nation, and many First Nations supported youth participation in the Indigenous Games. These are initiatives that the First Nations determine need attention. These decisions demonstrate the commitment the First Nations have to use the gaming funds in areas not covered by current government funding agreements. TABLE OF CONTENTS Across the province, there are many more good stories to tell. Message from the First Nations Trust Chairperson 1 The Ministry of First Nations and Métis Relations agrees. Together, we are planning to develop strategies to tell these Year-End Highlights 2 good stories and to encourage First Nations to continue creating First Nations Determined Initiatives 4 windfalls for themselves with their disbursements from gaming North: Map and Population 13 profits. Central: Map and Population 14 South: Map and Population 15 We thank the First Nations of , who through their Designated Allocations 16 leaders have given us the opportunity to serve in this rewarding role with the First Nations Trust. The FNT Board of Trustees & Management 18 The Trust & Trustees 20 Respectfully, Establishing the First Nations Trust 22 First Nations Determined Use of First Nations Trust 24 Harry J. Lafond, B.A., B.Ed., M.Ed. Funds Chairman, Board of Trustees Financial Statements 27 First Nations Trust Cover: Soccer Player, Shoal Lake Nation Asimakaniseekan Askiy Reserve Photo Credit: M. Dinwoodie

FIRST NATIONS TRUST 1 2007-08 YEAR-END HIGHLIGHTS

The Board of Trustees of the First Nations Trust There was a substantial increase in net profits wishes to draw the attention of the Trust to the First Nations Trust in 2007-2008. The beneficiaries to several financial and operational increase in net profits from last fiscal year to this matters. fiscal year was $7,153,080. This was the result of the profit growth of the First Nation run casinos. NET PROFITS In 2007-2008, monies were received from the REPORTING net profits of casinos operated by the The beneficiaries of the Trust must report to Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority and the the First Nations Trust each fiscal year. This provincial Saskatchewan Gaming Corporation. fiscal year each beneficiary provided the First An agreed upon portion of these net profits were Nations Trust with an Auditor's Report of financial remitted quarterly to the First Nations Trust by information, along with supporting Schedules the Saskatchewan Ministry of First Nations and outlining how the funds received from the Trust Métis Relations. In addition, one adjustment were used. Each Auditor's Report expresses an payment was made to "correct" the difference opinion as to whether the expenditure of funds between the estimated net profit that was paid distributed by the Trust is in compliance with out and the actual net profit of the casinos. section 5.01 of the Trust Indenture.

FIRST NATION CASINOS: During 2007-2008, 2007 AMENDING AGREEMENT HIGHLIGHTS the casinos operating under the From the annual net profits of SIGA run casinos, Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority the 2007 Amending Agreement includes contributed 50 per cent of the net profits of the provisions for revenue sharing amendments. casinos listed below. Bear Claw Casino The annual designated amount Dakota Dunes Casino commencing this fiscal year increased to Gold Eagle Casino $2.25 million for the First Nations Addiction Northern Lights Casino and Rehabilitation Foundation (FNARF). Painted Hand Casino "$250,000 shall be allocated to the FSIN through the First Nations Trust, for funding GOVERNMENT CASINOS: Casinos operated by of the FSIN's gaming activities" for the next the Saskatchewan Gaming Corporation five years. contributed 25 per cent of the net profits from 50 per cent of the remaining net profits of the following two government casinos: SIGA casinos are to be distributed to the Casino Moose Jaw First Nations Trust. Casino Regina TREATY RIGHTS PROTECTION FUND During 2007-2008, the net profit contribution to This fiscal year, the First Nations Treaty Rights the First Nations Trust from these seven casinos Protection Fund received a population-based in Saskatchewan amounted to: designated allocation of $620,193 from the First Nations Trust. $ 6,096,701 1st Quarter June 30, 2007 $ 8,639,143 2nd Quarter October 1, 2007 $ 7,385,423 3rd Quarter December 21, 2007 $12,729,344 4th Quarter March 30, 2008 $ 601,651 Adjustment December 21, 2007 $ 35,452,262 Total

2 FIRST NATIONS TRUST

FIRST NATIONS DETERMINED INITIATIVES Development & Operation of Recreational Facilities

Birch Narrows First Nation BIRCH NARROWS FIRST NATION has invested extensively in recreational facilities, community services, infrastructure, and both economic and capacity development with the assistance of funds distributed by the First Nations Trust.

The on-reserve population at Birch Narrows is relatively small at 627 people, but the need for local services is large. The First Nation has several initiatives that will make a difference. For example, the First Nation took over the Turnor Lake Provincial School and now owns the local Northern Store. These shifts in control open up new opportunities for change. The Birch Narrows Store has taken control by stocking shelves with healthier foods, including foods that are better for diabetics. Ownership and control of the school provides the opportunity to revitalize language retention and local history knowledge – these changes can help meet the needs of the community.

Like most reserves, there are major concerns about livelihood. Currently, prospects for employment are beginning to open up to the west of Birch Narrows. In anticipation of opportunities, on-reserve programs for capacity building are underway, including Job Readiness, Driver Education and Life Skills Training.

The Birch Narrows Elders' are active in the community and vigilant about changes to the environment. Mapping and recording the environmental history of their traditional territory is one Elder project underway. Their lifelong relationship with the land is just one reason they are holding meetings at the Birch Narrows Lodge. The Lodge is a development

4 FIRST NATIONS TRUST FIRST NATIONS DETERMINED INITIATIVES Development & Operation of Recreational Facilities

Birch Narrows First Nation ...cont’d conceived by the community, developed with First Nations Trust monies, and is wholly owned by the Birch Narrows First Nation. It is located in an isolated area of their traditional hunting, fishing and trapping lands. Built with logs, furnished with handmade furniture, it is an idyllic setting for their discussions about the impact of current resource exploration on their community. Other concerns of the Birch Narrows Elders' include the continuing loss of language, knowledge and history, affected by the passing of every member of their Elders' community.

Other developments that have occurred at Birch Narrows provide for both young and old, and follow the tradition of inclusiveness. Two recreation directors and student assistants, have been hired; this is possible because of funds from the First Nations Trust. The roster of events routinely goes to the Chief and Council for approval. Everyone is welcome to participate from both the Hamlet of Turnor Lake and the Birch Narrows First Nation membership.

FIRST NATIONS TRUST 5 FIRST NATIONS DETERMINED INITIATIVES Senior & Youth Programs

Canoe Lake First Nation Fifty Elders are able to stay cozy and warm in their own homes through the winter at Canoe Lake because they have their fuel costs paid out of a program their First Nation developed with the gaming profits distributed by the First Nations Trust. The Elder-at- Home program covers the heating expenses for their homes for seven months of the year, as well as power and utilities for the entire year.

This past winter $120,000 was spent by the Canoe Lake First Nation on fuel costs for their Elders and a fuel supplement for single parents. Canoe Lake First Nation has kept its focus on their people; community members receive assistance to bring home family members who live away due to special care needs. It means that visits to the reserve are possible for people who would not be able to come home otherwise. All these journeys are very meaningful and keep everyone in touch with family, friends and changes going on in the community.

Elders are included in everything at Canoe Lake and relied on for their expertise, consulted on planning and community well-being and development. Along with the youth, the Elders are involved in a culture camp supported by gaming profits distributed by the First Nations Trust. For those Elders who wish to attend gatherings at Patuanak, St Laurent or Ste Anne receive assistance with their camps, meals and transportation to go on pilgrimages.

Nineteen new housing units under construction received $150,000 toward building costs out of the Trust distribution this past year. Other uses of Trust monies included social programming support for solutions Elders are intent on finding. That great divide between their way of life and current social issues that are finding their way into the community, are among the challenges Elders are working to resolve in the Canoe Lake First Nation.

6 FIRST NATIONS TRUST FIRST NATIONS DETERMINED INITIATIVES Social Programs

Cumberland House First Nation Where rivers converge, two paddlers round Pine Island preparing for canoe races working their way up stream, turn and catch their breath going downstream, their shirts drenched in sweat, they reverse and go upstream again. A traditional meeting place for centuries, the paddling tradition continues – as the sign proclaims, Cumberland House is the home of the great paddler Solomon Carriere.

Cumberland House First Nation is some seven hours drive northeast of , in the massive delta of the Saskatchewan River, the rainforest growth on their small island includes enormous beds of ferns. Sun streams through tall trees highlighting the lush growth. Pine, willow, white birch, blue berries and fiddlehead ferns and wild rice thrive here.

But picturesque isn't everything, flooding and evacuation have occurred often here. It's been 15 years since a steel bridge replaced the annual wait for ice-bridges each winter. A road went in at the same time, an improvement but recently a visiting MLA whose vehicle rolled on the gravel road is expected to press for a higher priority on the needed upgrading.

Seasons pass and snow falls, anticipation of holidays, celebrations and presents builds. One gift is already known, it's the same for every child under 18 and every Elder, and given out at the annual Christmas party. With an on-reserve population of 683, the Cumberland House First Nation decided all the children would receive $100 each from the Funds distributed by the First Nations Trust. This year was no exception. It is just one of the many self-determining choices made by the Cumberland House First Nation about their use of the gaming profits distributed by the First Nations Trust. In addition, funds are used to assist with funeral costs, visits to hospitalized family, Elders needs, working mothers and occasional extreme emergency situations.

FIRST NATIONS TRUST 7

FIRST NATIONS DETERMINED INITIATIVES Education & Education Facilities

Lucky Man Cree Nation has the smallest membership in , numbering 108 in 2008. Their reserve, east of the , was finally established in 1989, more than 110 years after Lucky Man and his people adhered to Treaty 6 at Fort Walsh. During these intervening years, Lucky Man's people were amalgamated with the and lived on land that was reserved out of Treaty for Chief Little Pine, who was Lucky Man's brother-in-law.

Determination led to the establishment of their reserve and the Lucky Man Cree Nation is equally determined to encourage and provide the best possible educational opportunities for their membership. Lucky Man Cree Nation has a strategy to help ensure that the prospects for acquiring skills are there for their members, particularly youth, so that they will have choices in their futures.

As an interim measure, at the request of the Chief and Council, the First Nations Trust has held in trust every cent of the gaming profits set aside for Lucky Man Cree Nation. The funds are being held until the Lucky Man Cree Nation sets up its own Education Trust to assist their members in the pursuit of education and skills.

FIRST NATIONS TRUST 9 FIRST NATIONS DETERMINED INITIATIVES Senior & Youth Programs

Shoal Lake Cree Nation SOCCER coaches provide instruction in Cree to their young players; everyone is bilingual. Coaches remind them of their position for the game and the purpose of that position. Four coaches, fully certified through the Soccer Association, are assisted by four other coaches-in-training; they have been working with the children's soccer league for three years. The number of soccer players has been increasing each year and it's easy to see why.

The Shoal Lake Cree Nation Soccer teams begin arriving on the various soccer fields an hour before game time. They gather for a short prayer in Cree, followed by exercises, some last minute instructions by coaches, encouragement from their Chief, and they're ready to go. There's no doubt about it, these kids are having a good time. Even warm-ups and laps bring out laughter.

This year 80 soccer players represented the Shoal Lake Cree Nation in the Summer Games in Saskatchewan. For another invitational, 67 soccer players, age 7 to 14, were bused down to Prince Albert for a Tournament. Four teams aged 10 and under and four teams aged 14 and under arrived in PA from Shoal Lake the night before the Tournament. Four teams of girls and four teams of boys, along with their chaperones and coaches, had an evening of fun after the long ride, eating out and enjoying a chance to swim in the hotel pool. Different parents chaperone the teams on each trip, so that more parents have an opportunity to share these experiences with their children.

The Shoal Lake Cree Nation Council believes that their geographic isolation makes it especially important to develop youth sport and recreation on-reserve. With the soccer league up and running, plans are to begin work on winter recreation on-reserve. The First Nations Trust takes great pleasure in knowing that Trust monies are helping to meet the recreational development objectives at the Shoal Lake Cree Nation.

10 FIRST NATIONS TRUST FIRST NATIONS DETERMINED INITIATIVES Development & Maintenance of Community Infrastructure

Sturgeon Lake First Nation A MULTI-PURPOSE COMMUNITY CENTRE went under construction at Sturgeon Lake First Nation this year. The building contractor for the Multi-purpose Centre is a Prince Albert firm that hired many of their employees from the Sturgeon Lake First Nation. In three weeks, the EconoLumber work crew cleared the field, poured the foundation and floor, framed, completed the exterior walls, wired the building and started on its interior. Windows have been hung, the deep red siding and grey brick trim is in its final stages.

The Centre will provide more than ten thousand square feet of space and will be the gathering place for many types of events. The facility will have a kitchen equipped for catering to large or small events. By mid-November, the Sturgeon Lake First Nation Multi- Purpose Centre is to be completed and ready for use. This will be the first building, other than the school, built for large gatherings. It will make a big difference to have a place to host events away from their school. In the past there was no community hall available for wakes and funerals on-reserve, so the school would close, which meant many days of classes and work were lost.

Sturgeon Lake First Nation Multi-purpose Community Centre is located near the Band Office and down the hill from the school overlooking the Lake. It is centrally located, just off the pavement. Everyone is anxiously awaiting the opening of the $1.1 million dollar venture, especially a large group of artisans who will be able to share in the use of the facility. First Nations Trust is pleased to have been able to contribute to this addition to the Sturgeon Lake First Nation.

FIRST NATIONS TRUST 11 FIRST NATIONS DETERMINED INITIATIVES Development & Operation of Recreational Facilities

Sweetgrass First Nation Down the aisle they come, the center of attention, 11 tiny graduates from the Sweetgrass Kindergarten Class of 2008. Graduation certificates on a side table, streamers and balloons decorate the room, and food preparations are complete. From the formalities of a kindergarten ceremony to the wild cheers for the home team on the basketball court, the Sweetgrass Recreation Centre is a busy place. Feasts, weddings and wakes are held in the Centre and the professionally equipped kitchen has everything needed to cater for all occasions.

Funds from the First Nations Trust were set aside for the construction of the building. It seemed a long time from breaking ground until the grand opening of the Recreation Centre. Since its opening, there have been many ceremonial uses and extensive use of the fully equipped professional kitchen. The Centre, situated near the Band Office and the School, is open to everyone. It is used for organized sport and leisure activities and includes a weight room.

As uses and programming have increased, FNT distributed funds now provide for programming costs, upkeep and recently a recreation director was hired as well.

The kids make a running exit from classes at recess, excitement is heightened knowing it's the second last day of school and the Science and Culture Camp will start in a few days. With 92 students from K to 8, The Recreation Director and the Centre will be busy all summer long.

12 FIRST NATIONS TRUST NORTH: Map and Population

Uranium City

Stony Rapids Fond du Lac Denesuline Nation Hatchet Lake pop. 1647 Denesuline Nation pop. 1440

Black Lake Denesuline Nation pop. 1804

Clearwater River Nation pop. 1520 Birch Narrows First Nation pop. 627

Buffalo River English River Southend First Nation First Nation pop. 1167 pop. 1341 Buffalo Narrows Patuanak

Canoe Lake Ile-a-la-Crosse Pinehouse Cree Nation Peter Ballantyne pop. 1880 Beauval Pelican Narrows Cree Nation La Ronge pop. 8653 Lac La Ronge Waterhen Lake Indian Band Creighton First Nation pop. 8384 pop. 1749

Montreal Lake Meadow Lake Cumberland House Cree Nation Cree Nation Big Island Flying Dust pop. 3331 Lake First Nation Cumberland pop. 1087 pop. 1080 House Cree Nation Wahpeton Dakota pop. 930 First Nation Shoal Lake pop. 462 Cree Nation Island Lake Sturgeon Lake pop. 800 First Nation First Nation Nipawin pop. 1180 pop. 2379 Prince Albert Peter Chapman Red Earth James Smith First Nation Cree Nation Makwa Sahgaiehcan Tisdale pop. 611 pop. 1347 First Nation Cree Nation pop. 1343 Melfort pop. 1287 Chakastapaysin Cree Nation pop. 934

FIRST NATIONS TRUST 13 CENTRAL: Map and Population

Big River First Nation Onion Lake Pelican Lake pop. 2964 First Nation First Nation pop. 4518 pop. 1302 Witchekan Lake First Nation Thunderchild pop. 620 Ahtahkakoop First Nation Cree Nation pop. 2392 pop. 2881

Mistawasis First Nation Muskoday Lloydminster pop. 2291 First Nation pop. 1548 pop. 1427 Young First Nation Chippeywan Prince Albert First Nation pop. 1132 Kinistin Saulteaux Nation Muskeg Lake Little Pine pop. 867 Cree Nation First Nation pop. 1809 pop. 1643 Melfort Tisdale North One Arrow Cree Nation First Nation pop. 1460 pop. 1409 Lucky Man Cree Nation Sweetgrass pop. 108 Chief Big Bear First Nation First Nation pop. 1655 Humboldt

Watson Red Pheasant Beardy’s & Okemasis Yellow Quill Saskatoon Mosquito Grizzly Bear’s First Nation First Nation First Nation Head & The Lean Man pop. 2036 pop. 2880 pop. 2522 First Nation pop. 1200

Whitecap Dakota First Nation Rosetown pop. 511 Kindersley

14 FIRST NATIONS TRUST SOUTH: Map and Population

Fishing Lake Key First Nation First Nation Day Star pop. 1524 pop. 1096 Cote First Nation First Nation pop. 439 pop. 3037 Keeseekoose pop. 2651 First Nation pop. 2095 Muskowekwan Wynyard Little Black Bear First Nation First Nation Kamsack pop. 1494 pop. 493 Star Blanket George Gordon Cree Nation First Nation pop. 564 pop. 3007 Okanese First Nation Melville Peepeekisis Standing Buffalo pop. 584 First Nation Dakota First Nation pop. 2298 Sakimay pop. 1112 First Nation Fort Esterhazy pop. 1376 Piapot Qu’Appelle Cree Nation Moose Jaw Chacachas pop. 2020 Regina First Nation Cowessess Muscowpetung First Nation Ochapowace Swift Current Carry the Kettle First Nation pop. 3513 First Nation First Nation pop. 1160 pop. 1433 Maple Creek Pasqua pop. 2310 Kahkewistahaw Nekaneet First Nation Weyburn First Nation First Nation pop. 1742 Carlyle pop. 1643 pop. 419 Assiniboia Ocean Man White Bear Wood Mountain First Nation First Nation First Nation pop. 427 pop. 2206 pop. 218

Pheasant Rump Nakota First Nation pop. 362

FIRST NATIONS TRUST 15 DESIGNATED ALLOCATIONS

Mandatory allocations are made by the First Health and Social Development Commission. Nations Trust (FNT) each year in accordance The technical support for the FNARF Board of with the 2002 Framework Agreement. The Directors is provided by a working group made distribution to both the First Nations Addiction up of representatives from Tribal Councils and Rehabilitation Foundation (FNARF), and to the independent First Nations. Gaming Jurisdiction Project remains the same each year. In contrast, the distribution to the GAMING JURISDICTION First Nations Treaty Rights Protection Fund from the First Nations Trust is based on the A second designated allocation is made in membership of the First Nations. support of the FSIN Gaming Jurisdiction Project that was established pursuant to the FIRST NATIONS ADDICTION 1995 Framework Agreement. The more recent REHABILITATION FOUNDATION 2002 Framework Agreement specified in section 2.1 that the First Nations Trust would Each year the First Nations Trust pays out a distribute the designated amount of $250,000 designated amount of $1.5 million to FNARF. to the Project, each year for a period of five The First Nations Trust deducts all designated years. In addition, the Agreement provides allocations from the net profits paid to the First $250,000 for gaming activities. Nations Trust, before distribution amounts are calculated for the Saskatchewan First Nations. The Gaming Jurisdiction Project mandate is to This is in accordance with the 2002 obtain recognition of First Nations' jurisdiction Framework Agreement. FNARF redistributes in relation to gaming. The Project and its these funds for local level programming by supporting Technical Committee receive their Tribal Councils and independent First Nations. guidance and direction from the FSIN Joint Executive Council and the Indian Government FNARF was established in 1995 by the FSIN Commission. In conjunction with the Province in accordance with instructions from the the Committee is developing gaming and Chiefs-in-Assembly. The mandate of FNARF is jurisdiction options that will be presented to the set out in section 35 of the First Nations federal government for discussion. Gaming Act (FSIN, 1995) as well as the 2002 Framework Agreement, which provide FNARF FIRST NATIONS TREATY RIGHTS is to "ensure effective and accessible PROTECTION FUND education, prevention, and treatment programs about problem gambling are available to First A designated distribution from the First Nations Nation people." Trust to the First Nations Treaty Rights Protection Fund began in 2004-2005. As with The Board of Directors of the First Nations other distributions, the permitted uses are Addiction Rehabilitation Foundation is limited specified in section 5.1 of the 2003 Trust to Chiefs in Saskatchewan, who are also Indenture. This fiscal year, 2007-2008, the members of the FSIN Health and Social allocation was $620,193. This allocation was Development Commission (HSDC). calculated, based on a per capita amount of Administration of the First Nations Addiction five dollars for each member of a Rehabilitation Foundation is provided by the Saskatchewan First Nation.

16 FIRST NATIONS TRUST DESIGNATED ALLOCATIONS ...cont’d

The FSIN Chiefs-in-Assembly established REVIEW HIGHLIGHTS the First Nations Treaty Rights Protection Fund The Review recommended an increase from (FNTRPF) in 1983 pursuant to FSIN three to five members sitting on the Tribunal. Resolution #007 and restated in FSIN The Tribunal now consists of an FSIN Senator, Resolution #597. The objective of the FNTRPF two members-at-large, a consultant, a lawyer is the protection, promotion and enhancement and the FSIN Executive member holding the of Treaty and Inherent rights of all First Nations FNTRPF portfolio who is a non-voting member in Saskatchewan. of the Tribunal.

In 1983, when the FNTRPF was created, a The mandate of the Tribunal members and Tribunal was also established and provided those who administer the FNTRPF is as with the FNTRPF Terms of Reference, which follows: set out the guidelines for the appropriate use and administration of the Fund. The Tribunal's Take a lead role in the defense, mandate was to develop policies and protection, promotion and enhancement administrative processes for the FNTRPF. of Treaty and Inherent rights; Ensure that the Treaty and Inherent In 2004, the FSIN Chiefs-in-Assembly rights, as well as rights derived from First amended the FNTRPF Terms of Reference. Nation legislation, are respected and recognized; Then in 2007, the Chiefs-in-Assembly Serve the collective interests of mandated the FNTRPF Tribunal to undertake a Saskatchewan First Nations people review of the Fund including the application respecting Treaty and Inherent rights; process and the Terms of Reference. and The Tribunal, assisted by David Knoll of Provide an opportunity to advance Knoll & Co. also reviewed the Terms of Treaty and Inherent rights issues to the Reference. Based on feedback and attention of the Saskatchewan First recommendations from First Nations, Tribal Nations and the public generally. Councils and Commissions, the review also resulted in the development of a new APPLICATIONS application form and check-list. Since 1984, the FNTRPF Tribunal has reviewed 63 applications for support. The By March 2008, the Review was complete current breakdown of these submissions is: and the Chiefs-in-Assembly approved and New Applications 7 accepted new Terms of Reference, Guidelines, Applications Pending 34 Application Form and Checklist for the FNTRPF. In addition, David Knoll prepared a Applications Closed or Completed 17 report entitled First Nations' Treaty Rights Applications Rejected 5 Protection Fund, Review and Analysis.

FIRST NATIONS TRUST 17 THE FNT BOARD OF TRUSTEES & FNT MANAGEMENT

The First Nations Trust requires that the majority of the Board of Trustees reside on- reserve. Currently, all the members of the Board are on-reserve residents. Appointments to the Board of Trustees are made by the FSIN Chiefs-in-Assembly on the advice and recommendations of the Executive Council, the Indian Government Commission and the Economic Development Commission.

HARRY J. LAFOND is the Chairperson for the EVERETTE BEAR accepted the role and Board of Trustees of the First Nations Trust. responsibility as a Trustee for the First Nations Harry brings experience, commitment to Trust in May 2003. Everette has wide-ranging transparency, good service and experience in both the public and private professionalism to the Board. He has served sectors that are valuable to his role at the on many Boards, Commissions, and Trust. He was Chief of the Muskoday First committees working for First Nations including Nation for six years and for another four years the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian was on Council. He is an experienced board Nations, Saskatchewan Indian Cultural Centre, member, not only with the Trust, but also with Onion Lake First Nation and the Office of the the Saskatchewan Wheat Board, ACC, Treaty Commissioner. He served his own Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming community as Chief for ten years, as principal Commission, Saskatchewan Indian Loan of the Kihiw Waciston School, and as Director Company, Vice-Chairman of the Saskatchewan of Education for the . Indian Equity Foundation Board of Directors It has been another good year with the Trust and Vice-Chairman of the First Nations for Harry, who commented, "This year, I have Agricultural Council of Saskatchewan. In really appreciated the camaraderie of the staff addition, Everette has business experience as and Trustees." There are also wonderful a farmer, owner of a small business and returns on the work, "I get excited when I hear contracts for bus transportation for students. stories about the good things communities do Everette described one of his greatest for their people using the gaming funds." achievements as a Trustee as "working together as a team for the greater benefit of DRUSCILLA STANLEY of the Ahtahkakoop the beneficiaries. It's wonderful to work with a First Nation has worked in the area of finance group of people who have the best interest of throughout her career. She held the position of the people at heart." Director of Finance for the Prince Albert Student Residence, later she worked as Band VELMA WUTTUNEE has held positions in Administrator and as Manager for the finance throughout her career bringing Ahtahkakoop First Nation. Druscilla is extensive experience to the Trust in financial continuing her education in finance taking matters having provided advice and assistance courses toward her Certificate of Aboriginal to First Nations under third party management, Financial Management designation as well as as well as Tribal Councils. Velma was asked to participating in workshops and courses at the accept an appointment to the Board of University. Trustees for the First Nations Trust, when the Trust Indenture was put in place. She is a Financial Officer for the Red Pheasant First Nation where she resides.

18 FIRST NATIONS TRUST THE FNT BOARD OF TRUSTEES & FNT MANAGEMENT ...cont’d

NOLAND HENDERSON was appointed to the MANAGER First Nations Trust, Board of Trustees in 2003. IDA JOHNSON-LAROCQUE Speaking about the Trust, Noland believes that, "this group of Trustees and their staff, Ida Johnson-LaRocque has been manager of have come a long way in establishing the FNT since it was established in 2003. confidence in the Trust." Experience Noland While completing her Bachelor of Commerce brings to the Trust includes serving on the degree, Ida worked in the FSIN Treaty SaskTel Board of Directors for two 3-year Governance Processes Office. Previous terms and at the same time, he served on the responsibilities in finance and gaming profit Board of Governors of the First Nations distribution provided several years of practical University of . Noland's achievements experience before undertaking her current include serving as a Chief and terms as a position. band councillor for the Montreal Lake Cree Nation for over eight terms. Currently, Noland ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT is actively involved in other boards and CARLITA GARDIPY committees. He sits as a Commissioner on the Saskatchewan Police Commission, which Carlita Gardipy has been with the Trust since governs the city police forces in Saskatchewan 2007. While attending the University of and he is the First Vice-Chair of the Board of Saskatchewan, Carlita worked part-time in Governors, Northern Teacher Education Saskatoon. She is assisting the Manager and Program (NORTEP). In addition, Noland trustees with financial, operational and directs the Resources and Environment administrative duties. Program for the Montreal Lake Cree Nation, a position he has held for ten years.

RAY GAMBLE was requested to take up the role and responsibilities on the Board of Trustees in 2003. His background in both the private and public sector include banking, management and administrative positions. Ray graduated from Business Administration at the University of Saskatchewan and the Canadian Institute of Management program holding a C.I.M. designation. Ray is a member of and resides on the Beardy and Okemasis First Nation.

FIRST NATIONS TRUST 19 THE TRUST & TRUSTEES

A TRUST is a way of having property held THE OBLIGATIONS OF THE TRUSTEES for a person or a group of people. When include maintaining legal control and property is held in a trust, the trust is often ownership of the trust property. The Trustees defined in a written agreement or trust of the First Nations Trust are required by law to document. act only in the best interests of the beneficiaries of the Trust. The 2003 Trust ONE PURPOSE FOR ESTABLISHING A Indenture, in conjunction with The Trustees TRUST is that it allows the trustees to manage Act, R.S.S. 1978, defines what the Trustees of the property of the trust. Whatever the property the First Nations Trust can and cannot do with of a trust is, it must be managed so that the the property of the Trust. In addition, the law decisions made about that property are made imposes certain obligations on the Trustees, in the best interests of the beneficiaries of the even if such duties are not specifically set out trust. in the written Trust Agreement.

THE FIRST NATIONS TRUST is defined by THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES MUST the 2003 Trust Indenture, which is an appoint a qualified independent auditor to agreement between the FSIN and the Province examine the books and records of the First of Saskatchewan. Nations Trust. The Trustees are also required to prepare an Annual Report each year that THE PROPERTY held by the First Nations includes the audited financial statements of the Trust is defined in the 2003 Trust Indenture Trust for that fiscal year. and that property is money. The money is received from the net profits of seven casinos THE POWER AND AUTHORITY OF THE in Saskatchewan. TRUSTEES is set out in section 8 of the 2003 Trust Indenture, including authority to pay THE BENEFICIARIES OF THE FIRST authorized expenses; to retain the services of NATIONS TRUST are specified by the 2003 advisors, professionals or others to assist the Trust Indenture. The beneficiaries are specified Trustees in the performance of their duties; to as, a First Nation, an Indian Band, and the pay reasonable remuneration to the Board for Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations, performance of their duties; to follow valid as these terms are defined in the 2003 Trust direction from the Chiefs-in-Assembly Indenture. (Legislative Assembly of the FSIN); and except as limited by the 2003 Trust Indenture, pay out THE PURPOSE OF THE TRUST is “to the Trust property for the benefit of any one or effect the distribution of the monies due to First more of the beneficiaries, or for the benefit of 18 Nations from, among other things, the profits First Nations peoples. from both SIGA and SGC casinos.”

The 2003 Trust Indenture also defines the beneficiary of the Trust as "a First Nation, an Indian Band or the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations."

20 FIRST NATIONS TRUST THE TRUST & TRUSTEES ...cont’d

PERMITTED USES OF THE FIRST At the end of the year, after the actual profit is NATIONS TRUST PROPERTY - The 2003 calculated, the Province makes an adjustment Trust Indenture is very clear about the uses of to the amount that was paid to the First Trust monies. For First Nations Trust monies Nations Trust, which was based on estimates, distributed by the Board of Trustees, the Trust so that the amount reflects the actual profits Indenture requires that the funds must be used due to the First Nations Trust. for specified purposes for First Nations and First Nations peoples. The First Nations Trust Board of Trustees must meet at least quarterly to distribute the Trust The specified purposes that funds distributed property in accordance with the 2003 Trust to beneficiaries may be used for are stated in Indenture. When the Trustees distribute Trust section 5.01 of the 2003 Trust Indenture. property, they must take into account any properly received directions from the FSIN Those purposes are: Chiefs-in-Assembly. economic development, At the end of each fiscal year, March 31st, the social programs, Board of Trustees is responsible for ensuring justice initiatives, that all recipients of property of the Trust education and education facilities, properly account for how the Trust property was spent. development and operation of recreational facilities, Section 9 of the 2003 Trust Indenture sets out senior and youth programs, the accountability provisions. In the event that cultural and spiritual development, a recipient or beneficiary of Trust property is development and maintenance of not able to properly account for the monies, or community infrastructure, spent the monies in an inappropriate manner, the Trustees have a fiduciary obligation to the health initiatives, other beneficiaries to take whatever steps are governance activities, necessary, including withholding future Treaty protection, and payments, to ensure appropriate accountability any other charitable purpose. of the beneficiaries.

THE FIRST NATIONS TRUST PROCESS - The fiscal year for the Trust starts on April 1st of each year and ends on March 31st of the following year. During each quarter of the fiscal year, the Province of Saskatchewan pays one- fourth of the estimated profits due to the First Nations Trust in accordance with the 2002 Framework Agreement.

FIRST NATIONS TRUST 21 ESTABLISHING THE FIRST NATIONS TRUST The First Nations Trust came to be established 1995 GAMING AGREEMENT - When the by the Chiefs-in-Assembly in 2002. Matters City of Saskatoon referendum results relating to gaming had been the subject matter determined that the Province should operate of many discussions and resolutions during only one government-run Casino, the FSIN Legislative Assemblies. Chiefs provided for the and Saskatchewan negotiated the 1995 establishment of the First Nations Trust by way Gaming Agreement. of resolution and the signing of a Trust Indenture. This timeline includes several This Agreement acknowledged that the important events and Agreements central to provincial government would not open the the background of the First Nations Trust which government-run casino in Saskatoon, such as include: had been outlined in the 1994 Gaming Agreement. The 1995 Agreement also 1994 GAMING AGREEMENT - The specified that FSIN would be authorized to development of a partnership with the operate four First Nation run casinos, that is Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations four Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (FSIN) and the Saskatchewan Gaming (SIGA) casinos. Corporation (SGC) occurred in 1994. The SGC is a Provincial Crown Corporation established The 1995 Agreement continued to provide the to operate casinos. framework for First Nations' gaming in Saskatchewan. The Agreement was put in place to provide for gaming revenue sharing between the two THE FIRST NATIONS FUND was governments, Provincial and First Nation. The established in September 1995, under the FSIN entered into the 1994 Gaming Agreement Saskatchewan Gaming Corporation Act. For a with the Government of Saskatchewan. period of time, prior to the establishment of First Nations Trust, First Nations' share of the Under the 1994 Gaming Agreement, the First net proceeds from government and SIGA-run Nations in Saskatchewan were to receive 25 casinos were paid to and administered by the per cent of the net revenues from two trustees of the First Nations Fund. That Fund proposed government-run casinos. The two has now been closed completely. casinos were located in Regina and Saskatoon. 1995 FLIP CLAUSE was invoked due to the success of the SIGA-run casinos. 1994 SASKATOON REFERENDUM - The Saskatchewan used this clause in the 1995 City of Saskatoon held a plebiscite for citizens Gaming Agreement to change the net to vote on the development of a casino in revenues from SIGA-run casinos to 25 per downtown Saskatoon. The referendum was in cent. The parties signed an Amending the fall of 1994 in Saskatoon. Agreement that provided for both First Nations and the Province to receive 37.5 per cent of In the1994 referendum, the Saskatoon voters the net proceeds from SIGA-run casinos. rejected the idea of a government-run casino. 2000 EXTENSION - the 1995 Gaming Agreement was extended until December 2000 with the same the terms and conditions.

22 FIRST NATIONS TRUST ESTABLISHING THE FIRST NATIONS TRUST...cont’d 2002 AGREEMENT between FSIN and 2005 - FILE HILLS QU'APPELLE TRIBAL Saskatchewan replaced the 1995 Gaming COUNCIL 2004 AMENDING AGREEMENT to Agreement. The 2002 Gaming Framework the 2002 Framework Agreement was signed in Agreement was for a 25 year period, with a January 2005 to permit the development of a review period set for every five-years. new casino in the City of Swift Current.

The Agreement also provided that funds 2007 AMENDING AGREEMENT - The 2007 should be set aside for problem-gambling Agreement between the Government of programming for First Nations peoples, and Saskatchewan and the FSIN to provide for toward a joint effort between the FSIN and the several changes to the 2002 Framework Province in relation to matters relating to on- Agreement, including: reserve gaming jurisdiction. providing for a process for New Gaming Ventures; 2003 - THE SASKATCHEWAN INDIAN GAMING AUTHORITY (SIGA) and the amending the designated payout (section Centennial Auditorium Board made an effort to 4.1); facilitate the development of a new casino in providing for a five-year allocation to the City of Saskatoon. The Casino vote and FSIN for gaming activities (section 4.b.1); the civic election vote were on the same ballot amending the percentage of the net in October 2003; interest in the development of profits due; an agreement was defeated by the referendum changes relating to the amount of funds results. due to SLGA from SIGA; 2003 - CHIEFS IN ASSEMBLY INSTRUCT matters relating to Battlefords Agency that a Trust be established to replace the First Tribal Chiefs (BATC); Nations Fund. The First Nations Trust was amending section 8, which deals with established to administer the First Nations' Rehabilitation work by the First Nations share of the net proceeds from casinos run by Addiction and Rehabilitation Foundation both the Saskatchewan Gaming Corporation (FNARF); (SGC) and those run under the authority of SIGA. The 2007 Amending Agreement also provided for amendment to the 2003 Trust Indenture 2003 - THE FIRST NATIONS TRUST (FNT) in relation to requirements for fidelity was formally created when the 2003 Trust bonds for the Trustees. Indenture was signed in June by both the FSIN and the incoming Board of Trustees of the First Nations Trust.

2004 - THE AMENDING AGREEMENT was signed in November 2004; it amends the 2002 Framework Agreement to permit the development of a new casino on-reserve at the Whitecap Dakota First Nation.

FIRST NATIONS TRUST 23 24 FIRST NATIONS DETERMINED USE OF FIRST NATIONS TRUST FUNDS: NORTH These three tables provide a look at how each First Nation expended funds distributed by the First Nations Trust. Each table presents the expenditures by the purposes monies may be used for according to the FNT requirements. Note: Figures are rounded to the nearest dollar. First Nations Trust Revenue forward 06-07 Surpluscarried Economic Development Social Programs Justice Initiatives facilities Education & facilities operation ofrecreational The development& Senior & Youth Programs Development Cultural &Spiritual infrastructure maintenance ofcommunity The development& Health Initiatives Governance Activities Treaty Protection Purpose Any otherCharitable Total Expenditures Surplus /Deficit

First Nation Birch Narrows First Nation 166,384 - - - - - 166,384 ------166,384 - Black Lake Denesuline Nation 457,357 - 38,900 80,242 - - 14,940 70,775 - 36,985 - 124,141 - 1,000 366,983 90,374 Buffalo River First Nation 300,413 - - - - 81,304 15,140 3,585 8,658 113,726 54,000 - 24,000 - 300,413 - Big Island Lake Cree Nation 243,172 - 108,858 - 59,986 - - - 17,137 - - 57,191 - - 243,172 - Canoe Lake Cree Nation 477,874 - 98,730 2,575 - 10,341 138,425 150,702 1,479 71,103 - - 4,519 - 477,874 - Clearwater River Dene Nation 391,601 - - 8,332 - - 36,812 135,670 27,933 188,404 - - - - 397,151 (5,550) Chakastaypaysin Cree Nation 240,378 18,876 - 30,916 - - - - - 23,021 - 154,120 - - 208,057 51,197 Cumberland House Cree Nation 277,249 - - 52,956 - - - 109,017 27,429 - - 41,917 - - 231,319 45,930 English River First Nation 355,514 - 30,059 - - - 92,525 105,250 ------227,834 127,680 278,777 ------108,342 - 170,435 - - - - 278,777 - Fond Du Lac Denesuline Nation 423,485 - - 109,463 - - - 66,765 205,526 10,285 - 20,646 - 10,800 423,485 - Hatchet Lake Denesuline Nation 367,000 - 96,986 - - - 26,010 5,000 - 18,500 - 112,940 - - 259,436 107,564 Island Lake First Nation 308,114 - 216,280 40,000 - - 14,834 - 18,000 19,000 - - - - 308,114 - 339,158 53,408 - 136,363 - - - - - 29,302 - 156,092 - - 321,757 70,809 2,110,613 589,713 - 105,002 - - 1,125,986 237,361 51,769 102,378 - 62,893 - 102,378 1,787,767 912,559 Makwa Sahgaiehcan First Nation 327,255 - 43,246 104,065 - 15,000 43,025 ------205,336 121,919 Montreal Lake Cree Nation 843,921 - 736,389 - - - 88,375 6,342 56,043 - - - - - 887,149 (43,228) Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation 2,157,673 - - 1,296,576 - - - - - 105,097 - 756,000 - - 2,157,673 - Peter Chapman Cree Nation 162,778 22,430 - 20,245 - - - - - 13,377 - 109,915 - - 143,537 41,671 Red Earth Cree Nation 344,063 - 25,031 145,455 - - - 90,165 - - 13,788 42,342 - - 316,781 27,282 Shoal Lake Cree Nation 209,508 - 2,475 92 88 19,508 44,568 64,396 1,482 12,650 2,866 - 61,383 - 209,508 - Sturgeon Lake First Nation 599,557 - - 277,350 2,748 700 128,876 45,261 18,489 - - 81,667 - - 555,091 44,466 Waterhen Lake First Nation 444,781 - 2,655 259,792 - - 60,000 33,255 60,188 160,473 - - - - 576,363 (131,582) Wahpeton Dakota First Nation 124,652 29,186 51,000 - - 46,335 11,135 ------108,470 45,369 North Area Totals 11,951,279 713,613 1,450,609 2,669,424 62,822 173,188 2,007,035 1,231,886 494,133 1,074,736 70,654 1,719,864 89,902 114,178 11,158,431 ------Any other Charitable 9,250 5,842

Purpose 15,092 ------Any other Charitable 4,150

Purpose 65,428 47,499 21,502 22,298 25,648 186,525

FIRST NATIONS TRUST Statement of Financial Position

March 31, 2008, with comparative figures for 2007 FIRST NATIONS TRUST Statement of Revenue and Expenditures and Surplus

Year ended March 31, 2008, with comparative figures for 2007 FIRST NATIONS TRUST Statement of Cash Flows

Year ended March 31, 2008, with comparative figures for 2007 FIRST NATIONS TRUST Notes to Financial Statements

Year ended March 31, 2008 FIRST NATIONS TRUST Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

Year ended March 31, 2008 FIRST NATIONS TRUST Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

Year ended March 31, 2008 FIRST NATIONS TRUST Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

Year ended March 31, 2008 FIRST NATIONS TRUST Schedule of Administration Expenses

Year ended March 31, 2008, with comparative figures for 2007