Mr. Speaker, I rise today to inform my colleagues in the House of Assembly that government has reached an agreement with Labrador Metis Nation (LMN) outlining the participation of the LMN in forest ecosystem management planning in Labrador. This two-year agreement formally acknowledges the LMN as a key stakeholder in the management and future development of Labrador�s forest resource. The agreement will be retroactive to April 1, 2004, and continue until March 31, 2006. Our government realizes establishing an effective working relationship with the Labrador Metis Nation will further the advancement of sustainable forest management in Labrador. This agreement supports the development of the forest industry in Labrador and in doing so brings welcome benefits to the residents of Labrador, including the members of the Labrador Metis Nation and the communities in which they live. Mr. Speaker, As part of the agreement, government will conduct a feasibility study into the value-added and secondary forest products industry in Labrador in conjunction with local stakeholders. This important initiative will help government and the LMN identify the market potential of Labrador-based forest products. Mr. Speaker, Thank you. |
||
|