The federal government has settled a more than 100-year-old outstanding land claim with Long Plain First Nation in southern Manitoba.

The claim dates back to 1916 when Canada failed to give the proper land sales according to an agreement between the nation and the federal government. "This achievement marks a significant step toward addressing the wrongs done to the community and rebuilding Canada’s relationship with Long Plain First Nation," the First Nation says in a news release.

Long Plain submitted claim concerns in 1999 and Canada accepted the claim for negotiations more than 10 years later.

“The Long Plain First Nation 1916 Surrender Claim settlement will ensure that our children will enjoy a bright and prosperous future," Chief Dennis Meeches says.

"This settlement was made possible due to the hard work and dedication of our members, some of which we have lost since the claim was initiated. Today it is an historical step forward on the path of reconciliation. Thank you to all involved.”

The settlement agreement includes the federal government providing more than $31 million in compensation and the opportunity for Long Plain to acquire nearly 690 hectares of land. 

“Congratulations to Chief Meeches and Long Plain First Nation on the successful completion of this historic settlement," Marc Miller, Minister of Crown–Indigenous Relations says.

"We recognize the harm caused to Long Plain First Nation by Canada’s failure to administer the land sales according to the terms of the surrender. As we renew our Nation-to-Nation relationship, we are committed to working together and rebuilding trust, and we continue to address past wrongs for a better tomorrow.”

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With files from The Canadian Press