The three bands that make up James Smith Cree Nation are on a path to become independent from each other for the first time since the federal government forced them to amalgamate in 1902.

The First Nation, situated on lands near the North Saskatchewan River, has just reached a settlement of $713.8 million with the federal government for a collection of complex land claims.

It includes the Chakastaypasin, James Smith and Peter Chapman bands, each of which has already received an advance payment of $50 million.