Fourteen First Nations communities in New Brunswick have signed new revenue-sharing agreements with the provincial government.

The deals restore a funding model that was cancelled by the previous Progressive Conservative government in 2021.

Six Wolastoqey and eight Mi’kmaq communities signed separate agreements that return a portion of provincial tax revenue from reserve-based businesses back to First Nations.

The funding is meant to support housing, education, health care and economic development. Premier Susan Holt said the agreements reflect a government-to-government approach and mark a new benchmark for reconciliation and collaboration.

“We understand and recognize that building partnerships and fostering relationships with the Mi’kmaq and Wolastoqey is about creating equity and shared prosperity for all New Brunswickers,” Holt said in separate releases.

The agreements differ slightly in structure. Here’s how each group’s revenue-sharing model works:

Wolastoqey Agreement:

• Revenue below $10 million: 95 per cent to First Nations, 5 per cent to the province
• Revenue between $10 million and $16 million: 70 per cent to First Nations, 30 per cent to the province
• Revenue above $16 million: 50 per cent to each

Mi’kmaq Agreement:

• Revenue below $10 million: 95 per cent to First Nations, 5 per cent to the province
• Revenue between $10 million and $18 million: 70 per cent to First Nations, 30 per cent to the province
• Revenue above $18 million: 50 per cent to each

Chief George Ginnish of Natoaganeg (Eel Ground) First Nation said the funding will allow communities to invest in underfunded social programs and economic opportunities.

“The revenue we will see from these agreements will allow each of our communities to determine how to create better opportunities for our members,” Ginnish said.

Chief Rebecca Knockwood of Amlamgog (Fort Folly) First Nation said the agreements are a step toward economic reconciliation and self-determination.

“Historically, laws and policies were enacted to shut First Nations out of economic ventures and opportunities to the detriment of our communities,” Knockwood said.

Indigenous Affairs Minister Keith Chiasson said the negotiations required courage and trust.

“These agreements benefit all parties and are a way to advance economic reconciliation, respect treaty and Indigenous rights, and strengthen communities across New Brunswick,” Chiasson said.

The Wolastoqey communities signing the agreements are Sitansisk (Saint Mary’s), Neqotkuk (Tobique), Bilijk (Kingsclear), Matawaskiye (Madawaska Maliseet), Welamukotuk (Oromocto) and Wotstak (Woodstock).

The Mi’kmaq communities are Amlamgog (Fort Folly), Tjipogtotjg (Buctouche), L’nui Menikuk (Indian Island), Natoaganeg (Eel Ground), Metepenagiag (Red Bank), Esgenoôpetitj (Burnt Church), Oinpegitjoig (Pabineau) and Ugpi’ganjig (Eel River Bar).