Response to Supreme Court Logging Ruling

Nova Scotia will continue its policy of negotiating issues of mutual interest with Mi'kmaq First Nations, following the Supreme Court of Canada ruling, released today, July 20, in an aboriginal logging case.

The country's highest court restored the original convictions of 35 Mi'kmaq loggers, who had been charged with cutting timber on provincial Crown land, in violation of the Crown Lands Act.

"Three years ago we began a process that involves direct negotiations with our Mi'kmaq communities and the federal government," said Michael Baker, minister responsible for Aboriginal Affairs.

"We've made solid progress with our made-in-Nova Scotia negotiations, which continue to include looking at options for further Mi'kmaq participation in the forest industry. It's one part of our broader commitment to work together to find opportunities to further involve the Mi'kmaq in our growing Nova Scotia economy."

On June 7, 2002, the 13 Mi'kmaq chiefs of Nova Scotia, the province of Nova Scotia and the government of Canada signed an umbrella agreement that reaffirms their long-standing relationship and commitment to work together in good faith to resolve issues of mutual concern.

"We will take the necessary time to review the details of today's decision," said Richard Hurlburt, Minister of Natural Resources. "We are confident that this court ruling will be respected."

The forest industry in Nova Scotia generates about 17,000 direct and indirect jobs. Annual exports of newsprint, paper, wood pulp, softwood lumber and other products account for $1.1 billion dollars. Seventy per cent of Nova Scotia forest resources are owned privately. About 25 per cent is provincial Crown land.

There are 13 Mi'kmaq First Nations in Nova Scotia with an on- reserve population of 12,261, according to 2001 figures.