Province Prepares for Negotiations

Aboriginal Affairs Minister Michael Baker says good progress is being made in discussions on a process to address treaty rights and related issues.

The minister told those attending the annual Treaty Day ceremony at Province House today that any multi-phased negotiations involving Nova Scotia Mi'kmaq and the federal and Nova Scotia governments must achieve a workable and durable outcome.

"It is time to address the issues at the table," Mr. Baker told chiefs from bands across the province. "It is time to find mutually satisfactory answers that will work, not only for our generation, but also for our children and for their children."

The minister said no one should question the province's resolve in the forthcoming negotiations.

"I can assure you that our aim is to seek fair and practical solutions for the benefit of all Nova Scotians," he said.

"This government believes agreements can provide clarity and certainty in attracting investments necessary for economic development."

In a poll commissioned by the Office of Aboriginal Affairs last year, two-thirds or 67 per cent of respondents indicated that governments should negotiate outstanding Mi'kmaq issues.

Mr. Baker said it is important that all Nova Scotians know what the negotiations are about and how they will be conducted. The government will seek public input on the negotiations and more information will be available in the coming weeks.

There are 13 Mi'kmaq First Nations in Nova Scotia, with about 12,000 people living on the reserves.