Minister Describes Negotiations as Positive Step

ABORIGINAL AFFAIRS--Minister Describes Negotiations as Positive Step

Aboriginal Affairs Minister Michael Baker said today, Oct. 1, that the signing of the umbrella agreement by the Mi'kmaq, the province and the federal government in June was a significant step in the relationship with the province's First Nations.

The minister told those attending today's Treaty Day ceremony at Province House that the three parties will soon begin formal negotiations to identify issues to be negotiated, goals, procedures and the development of a timetable. This framework stage of the negotiations is a prelude to formal talks on treaty and related issues.

"This is a significant step in the evolution of our relationship in this province," the minister told chiefs from bands across the province.

"The signing of the umbrella agreement, although only a first step in the negotiating process, has told Nova Scotians that we have chosen the path of negotiations rather than confrontation."

Mr. Baker said that along with the start of negotiations, the provincial government is also honouring its commitment to refund the fuel tax wrongfully collected from Aboriginals on fuel sold on reserves. He said the province is also instituting a point-of- sale fuel tax exemption.

The Province House ceremony commemorated the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of 1752, a treaty of peace and friendship. Premier John Hamm and Mr. Baker signed a letter renewing the government's commitment to working together to strengthen and improve the partnership between the Mi'kmaq and the province.

There are 13 Mi'kmaq First Nations in Nova Scotia, with an estimated on-reserve population of 12,000.