A Message to Service Members

This week, I want to speak directly to the concerns many of us share about the Service Members Agreement and offer a clearer understanding of where things stand. The process to complete the steps in the Agreement involves three parties—our Nation, the Federation of Newfoundland Indians, and Canada. All parties have a responsibility to move toward a fair and final resolution to determine membership status for Service Members. We believe that each party understands how important this is for Service Members and all QFN members so, together, we are working to find a path forward that honours the commitments made to Service Members.

At our February Special Council meeting, your Council passed a motion supporting Canada’s proposed plan to complete the Agreement. This plan outlines the steps needed to bring this lengthy process to a close: reconvening the Agreement’s Enrollment and Implementation Committees, completing the remaining assessments, addressing appeals, and carrying out the required regulatory actions. By formally expressing our support through a Band Council Resolution, we are making our intentions clear and demonstrating our commitment to transparency. You can read the full text of the Band Council Resolution in our 20 February 2026 Minutes [link to Minutes].

We firmly believe that Service Members deserve a prompt and fair resolution. You have waited long enough, and we are determined to see this work progress without further delay. Our goal is to ensure that the process continues in a way that is consistent, accountable, and respectful of the people whose lives and families are directly affected.

There is a workable plan on the table. We have communicated our positions to all parties and have met with our counterparts. What is needed now is coordinated action from all of us—together, united in our desire to get this done.

We understand the frustration many people are experiencing. We hear it, we recognize it, and we feel it as well. This period of uncertainty has gone on for far too long, and the last thing we want is to add to the stress or hardship faced by those still waiting for a resolution.

Our position stays unwavering: Service Members deserve justice, and they deserve it now. We are committed to moving this process forward in line with the commitments we have already made, and we will continue to advocate for the prompt completion of this work.

Related Link: 2022 Agreement Q&A [link to Q&A]

A Note on Our Image: The Forget-Me-Not is a flower with historic ties to the Newfoundland Regiment in the days before the use of the poppy to signify remembrance of those lost during the First World War and our veterans. We have not forgotten our commitment to you and we will never waiver.