Traditional Eeyou Hunting Law
The Eeyou Hunting Governance Law establishes guidelines for the allocation of Indoh-hoh Istchee (hunting territories) and the governance of these areas by the Kaanoowapmaakin (hunting leaders or Tallymen). It outlines regulations for harvesting activities within these territories and creates a register for both the hunting territories and the Kaanoowapmaakin. Additionally, the law provides procedures for transferring territories and resolving disputes.
Rooted in Eeyou values and guiding principles—such as wisdom, courage, honesty, humility, compassion, sharing, and respect—the law represents an exercise of the Eeyou’s inherent right to self-government. The James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement (JBNQA) also recognizes the Eeyou system of hunting territories, ensuring it aligns with, but remains independent from, Quebec and Canadian laws.
In June 2019, the Cree Trappers’ Association Board of Directors approved the law, which has since been adopted by each Cree community in Eeyou Istchee. However, it has not yet been adopted by the Cree Nation Government.
To facilitate the finalization of the Eeyou Governance Document, an action plan has been developed. This plan includes educating the community about the law, gathering feedback for potential amendments, and engaging with the Cree Nation Youth Council and the Cree Nation Government Council Board. A legal firm will assist in finalizing the document, which will then be submitted to the CTA Board of Directors for approval at the CTA general assembly.