Premier Wants Strong Relationship with Mi'kmaq

Premier Rodney MacDonald said today, Oct. 2, government will continue to encourage and support the work being done through the Office of Aboriginal Affairs to create a strong working relationship with the Mi'kmaq.

"In many ways we are unique in the relationship we have developed here in Nova Scotia," Premier MacDonald said at a 20th annual Treaty Day ceremony. "We are the only province east of Quebec that is engaged in discussions on treaty rights which we hope will strengthen a long-term relationship based on mutual respect and understanding."

The provincial government, the Mi'kmaq and the government of Canada have been in discussions on a framework agreement since 2003. The agreement will outline how the made-in Nova Scotia negotiations will be conducted and the subjects to be discussed.

The premier said he anticipates a signing of the framework agreement early in the new year.

The 13 Mi'kmaq chiefs and the provincial and federal ministers signed an umbrella agreement in June 2002 to begin the process.

This year's ceremony was held in the Marriott Harbourfront Hotel because the legislative chamber in Province House is undergoing renovations.

The Treaty Day ceremony began in 1986 with the signing of a proclamation by then Grand Chief Donald Marshall Senior. The day marks the beginning of Mi'kmaq History Month in Nova Scotia.

There are 13 Mi'kmaq reserves in Nova Scotia with an on-reserve population of 8,676 according to 2004 statistics.