09/01/2025
Statement from Muscowpetung Saulteaux Nation Leadership
Re: False Claims of Misappropriation of Agricultural Benefits Settlement Funds
Muscowpetung Saulteaux Nation leadership wishes to address and firmly correct false claims regarding the Agricultural Benefits Settlement, commonly referred to as Cows and Plows.
There has been no misappropriation of funds. Every single dollar received from Canada - after the deduction of legally required fees - has been fully accounted for and placed under the secure management of CIBC’s Trust Group. These funds are safeguarded in the Sovereign Wealth Trust account, which is governed by strict trust guidelines and oversight.
To further ensure accountability, Muscowpetung undergoes both an annual operations audit and a trust audit. These independent audits provide clear, transparent reporting on how funds are safeguarded and disbursed, reinforcing our commitment to financial integrity.
The distribution process itself is highly secure and transparent, with built-in verification safeguards:
1. Identification - Each registered adult member must present at least two pieces of valid government-issued identification to access their entitlement.
2. Minors’ Trust - Settlement funds for registered minors are automatically placed into trust by CIBC and will be distributed when they reach the age of majority, with any accrued interest.
3. Payment Method - Eligible adult members receive their settlement dollars only through direct deposit (EFT) to the bank account they provide, or by international wire transfer if applicable. There is no alternative method to receive funds, ensuring integrity at every stage.
Regarding concerns about unevenness in payments: all registered members are receiving equal entitlement amounts. Some members have chosen a different distribution option - accepting a smaller immediate payment in exchange for scheduled payments over five years. This is a personal choice and not a reflection of mismanagement.
In addition, our PCD (Per-Capita Distribution) Coordinators will soon be releasing an updated numbers statement. This report will show how many members have already applied for and received their settlement dollars, as well as how many applications remain outstanding and are still to be paid out.
In short: every dime is protected, every process is verified, and every member’s entitlement is being honoured exactly as outlined. Oversight is strong, transparent, and guided by both trust law and community accountability.
Muscowpetung Saulteaux Nation leadership remains committed to the highest standards of accountability and transparency in ensuring that this historic settlement benefits all members today and for generations to come.
