Renewed Commitment to Treaty Bilateral Table on Water Sets Stage for Respectful Partnership and Action

Moh’kins’tsis, Treaty 7 Territory — August 13, 2026 — Following a high-level reset meeting with Minister Mandy Gull-Masty, Indigenous Services Canada (ISC), the Chiefs Steering Committee on Technical Services (CSC) is expressing cautious optimism regarding the federal government’s renewed commitment to honouring the Treaty Bilateral Table on Water.

The meeting served as a crucial reset to address the urgent need for First Nations-led water governance across Treaty territories in the Alberta region. Both parties agreed to re-ground discussions in mutual respect, Treaty relationship building, and the recognition of inherent Treaty rights.

“Water is a fundamental human right and a core Treaty promise that has gone unfulfilled for too long,” said Chief Troy Knowlton, Piikani Nation, Treaty No 7 Territory. “We shared clear evidence of the critical need for water protection in First Nations and across the Alberta region. While we welcome Minister Gull-Masty’s renewed presence, we expect our optimism to be paired with tangible outcomes.”

The Treaty Bilateral Table on Water was established as a unique forum for Treaty Chiefs to collaboratively address water, infrastructure, and a Treaty-based framework to support the work.

The CSC is supportive of the commitments to:

• Update and realign the Table’s Terms of Reference to address the current concerns regarding Bill C-37 and the broader work of the Treaty Table
• Work together on the CSC’s proposal to establish a Treaty Water Protectorate for Treaty 6, 7, 8, territories in the Alberta region.
• Open, transparent communication at the Table between Canada and Treaty Chiefs
• Assessing a financial framework for water and water infrastructure needs for Treaty 6, 7, 8, territories in the Alberta region.

The CSC looks forward to the next meeting with Minister Gull-Masty, ISC and Minister Alty, Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada. CSC will monitor progress closely over the coming months as we resume regular sessions under this refreshed relationship.