The transfer of Kapyong Barracks land to Treaty One First Nations is now signed.

On August 30, Canada and the Treaty One First Nations signed an agreement to sell 68 per cent of the Kapyong Barracks land to the Treaty One First Nations.

Chiefs from seven First Nations who make up the Treaty One First Nations group were present for the signing along with officials from the federal government and Department of National Defence (DND).

“In the spirit of Tecumseh, we acknowledge our Treaty One family for their perseverance and dedication to Kapyong,” Chief Dennis Meeches, Treaty One First Nations spokesperson, says.

“We acknowledge Canada and DND for coming to terms, and in the spirit of reconciliation, with the Treaty One Government after 17 years. The promise of tomorrow is upon us.”

Jim Carr is the MP for Winnipeg South Centre and minister of international trade diversification. He attended the ceremony on behalf of the federal government.

"After years of negotiation and dialogue between the Crown and the Treaty One First Nations, I am pleased to have participated in today’s ceremony," Carr says.

"The transfer of this land is important for building a just and inclusive future for all Manitobans."

The remaining 32 per cent of the property will be sold to Canada Lands Company for redevelopment.

The DND is currently in the process of demolishing the infrastructure on-site and the work is expected to be completed by fall 2021. The idea proposed by Treaty One communities is to build an urban reserve on the plot of land, which could include housing and retail spaces.