Mi'kmaq Chiefs, Nova Scotia and Canada Set to Begin Negotiation

ABORIGINAL AFFAIRS--Mi'kmaq Chiefs, Nova Scotia and Canada Set to Begin Negotiation

The 13 Mi'kmaq chiefs of Nova Scotia, the Province of Nova Scotia and the Government of Canada today signed an umbrella agreement that reaffirms their longstanding relationship and commitment to work together in good faith to resolve issues of mutual concern.

The 13 Mi'kmaq chiefs of Nova Scotia, the Province of Nova Scotia and the Government of Canada signed an umbrella agreement at a ceremony held in Halifax on June 7. Shown at a news conference following the ceremony are (left to right): Grand Keptin Alexander Denny (at podium); Chief Lawrence Paul, Millbrook First Nation, Colchester Co.; Michael Baker, Minister responsible for Aboriginal Affairs; Robert Nault, Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs Canada; and Chief Terrance Paul, Membertou First Nation, Cape Breton Regional Municipality.

The parties will continue with the existing Mi'kmaq-Nova Scotia- Canada Tripartite Forum as well as engaging in a broad negotiation process in Nova Scotia to consider issues of asserted Aboriginal rights, including title, and treaty rights. The parties have also agreed to establish a consultation process.

In January 2001, the three parties released a joint statement regarding their willingness to work together to resolve outstanding Aboriginal issues, including the long-term implementation of the Donald Marshall, Jr., decision. The umbrella agreement reaffirms this commitment and defines the process for moving forward.

The signing ceremony took place in the Red Chamber of Province House. The parties will now begin negotiating a framework agreement in which they will identify the issues to be negotiated, goals, procedures and a timetable for negotiations.

"The Mi'kmaq of Nova Scotia are pleased to be entering a process that will ultimately recognize and implement the rights of our people," said Chief Lawrence Paul.

"In the final analysis," said Chief Terrance Paul, "recognition and implementation of the rights of the Mi'kmaq in Nova Scotia will not only bring dignity and prosperity to our communities, but will show all Nova Scotians that partnership is the only way to create a better society."

"This is a significant step in our effort to resolve treaty and related issues through negotiations," said Michael Baker, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs, who signed on behalf of the province. "It's the first time that such a comprehensive process has been undertaken in Nova Scotia and I look forward to working on behalf of Nova Scotians with the government of Canada and the Mi'kmaq of Nova Scotia on these matters."

Robert Nault, Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs, who signed on behalf of the federal government, congratulated all parties on their commitment to the process.

"I am happy with the progress we have achieved since announcing our intention to work together to resolve mutual issues," he said. "We have made a strong commitment to improve the quality of life in Aboriginal communities and we have reached the stage which allows us to sit at the same table to devise the building blocks of a prosperous future together.

This release is also available at the Indian and Northern Affairs Canada Web site, at www.inac.gc.ca.