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Prince Albert, SK — The City of Prince Albert is pleased to announce the signing of a groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Woodland Cree First Nations, specifically the Montreal Lake Cree Nation, Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation, and Lac La Ronge Indian Band. This historic partnership aims to bring the planned Convention & Cultural Event Centre in the Yard District to fruition.
The purpose of this Memorandum of Understanding is for both parties to create a cooperative plan to explore and pursue different ways to fund the construction and operation of the Convention & Cultural Event Centre. The goal is for the parties to share ownership of the completed facility. The Woodland Cree Nations will own up to 45% of the Centre, while the City of Prince Albert will own the remaining.
Among the goals and benefits of this project will be the promotion of cultural heritage, the support and growth of economic development and the enhancement of cohesion within the participating and surrounding communities. With this partnership, The City of Prince Albert and The Woodland Cree First Nations set a precedent for collaboration and commitment to Truth & Reconciliation.
“This collaboration underscores the City of Prince Albert's dedication to fostering positive partnerships and building lasting relationships that reflect the city’s diverse population. With 46% of Prince Albert’s population declaring Indigenous heritage, this initiative is a significant step toward uniting the community and promoting growth across Central and Northern Saskatchewan,” said Mayor Greg Dionne
"To demonstrate our commitment to the planned Convention & Cultural Event Centre and enter into a one-of-a-kind partnership between the Woodland Cree First Nations and the City of Prince Albert on this new facility would be game-changing and the first of its kind in Canada, ultimately benefiting our communities and the people we serve," said Chief Joyce McLeod from Montreal Lake Cree Nation.
The Centre is proposed to be built on a serviced property adjacent to the new Aquatic & Arenas Recreation Centre. It will feature a 4,500-seat capacity and versatile spaces for various cultural, entertainment, and business events. The Convention & Cultural Event Centre is envisioned as a hub for community engagement, with facilities that can host a wide array of events, including graduation ceremonies, Pow Wows, trade shows, concerts, expos, weddings, conferences, gala dinners, and private functions. Additionally, the Centre will become the new home of the Prince Albert Raiders community-owned hockey club, the Prince Albert Northern Bears, Prince Albert Mintos, and potentially, the Senators Cup.
This partnership not only marks a milestone in Saskatchewan history but also sends a strong message of unity and a shared vision for a stronger, more inclusive community.
For more information, contact:
Mayor Greg Dionne
306 953.4300
Chief Joyce McLeod
Montreal Lake Cree Nation
306-663-5349
Chief Tammy Cook-Searson
Lac La Ronge Indian Band
306-425-1132
Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation
306-953-4400
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