To Whom It May Concern:

We, the democratically elected leadership of the Willow Lake Métis Nation (WLMN), are formally asserting our constitutionally protected rights under Section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982 in relation to proposed resource development projects in northwestern Saskatchewan.

Willow Lake Métis Nation is a historic and contemporary Métis community based in Anzac, Alberta. Our traditional territory extends eastward into what is now Saskatchewan, from Dore Lake in the south to Lake Athabasca in the north. Our people maintain ancestral and ongoing traditional ties to regions surrounding La Loche and the Clearwater River Dene Nation. These connections predate provincial boundaries and are reflected in the historical signing of Treaty 8 at Fort McMurray by members of the Portage La Loche group now known as the Clearwater River Dene Nation.

We have serious and valid concerns regarding the proposed uranium development in the Clearwater River watershed. The environmental impacts and the continued taking up of our traditional lands pose risks to our people, culture, and way of life. Despite our repeated efforts to engage, the Government of Canada and the proponents of these projects have failed to consult with WLMN.

In response, and as a matter of last resort in our obligation to protect the land and uphold the rights of our Citizens, Willow Lake Métis Nation has filed a Federal Court application filed June 20, 2025, seeking judicial review of Canada’s failure to fulfill its duty to consult. The application relates specifically to uranium mining projects proposed by NexGen Energy and Paladin Canada at Patterson Lake, Saskatchewan, located approximately 150 kilometers northeast of Fort McMurray.

We want to be clear: our assertion of rights does not conflict with or diminish any agreements made between other Indigenous Nations and the lease applicants. Our position is focused solely on ensuring the Crown’s duty to consult Willow Lake Métis Nation is meaningfully fulfilled. We are committed to respectful engagement and responsible development that includes all rights-holding Indigenous communities.



Respectfully,
The Leadership of Willow Lake Métis Nation