Onion Lake Cree Nation and the federal government have committed to working together to improve health services by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
Minister of Indigenous Services The Honourable Jane Philpott and Chief Wallace Fox signed the MOU on Thursday, acknowledging a new health funding agreement based on treaty relationships that will give Onion Lake control over the services they provide.
Philpott says treaty relationships are sacred and need to be supported.
“We believe, the Prime Minister believes that our acknowledgment and respect and affirmation of the treaty is key to our lasting work of reconciliation and to continuing to go forward in a good way.”
Philpott did not mention the details of the funding model, but that it will help improve the health services offered in Onion Lake. The MOU states that Onion Lake has the right to discuss and implement milestones of the Treaty Relationship Based Health Funding Arrangement with the country.
Chief Fox says this agreement recognizes the importance of their youth having good health and a good life.
“When our ancestors put the medicine chest clause in the Treaty, they were thinking of the future generations, we are thinking of the future generation when we enter into this MOU.”
He adds that this will be one of his last duty’s as Chief and advocates for the work to be carried on.