The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Felix Collins, Minister for Intergovernmental and Aboriginal Affairs:

Aboriginal Foundational Document to Strengthen Relationships with Aboriginal People

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to stand today to announce an important step in strengthening the Provincial Government’s relationship with Aboriginal people and organizations in the province – the development of an Aboriginal Foundational Document for the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Mr. Speaker, the final document will outline government’s vision for a principles-based relationship built on respect, honour and trust.

The Aboriginal Foundational Document will outline the Provincial Government’s commitment to approaching Aboriginal issues in a strategic manner. It will also serve to highlight significant shared achievements resulting from strong partnerships with Aboriginal organizations in the province.

Consultation will occur with provincial Aboriginal organizations to introduce the concept of the foundational document, discuss the draft document and gather feedback. These consultations will allow for meaningful discussion that will help to inform the development of a final document and are expected to occur this summer.

We have made great strides toward strengthening our relationships with Aboriginal people and organizations, particularly over the past decade, through the negotiation of land claims, self-governing and other agreements and our commitment to ensuring appropriate consultation and dialogue with Aboriginal organizations.

Our government has continued to maintain a strong government to government relationship with the Nunatsiavut Government and tomorrow Premier Dunderdale will be hosting a joint Cabinet meeting with members of the Provincial Government Cabinet, President Sarah Leo and members of the Nunatsiavut Government Executive Council.

The development of an Aboriginal Foundational Document, in partnership with Aboriginal organizations in our province, will help to establish a framework for a respectful relationship between the Provincial Government and all Aboriginal people in Newfoundland and Labrador and a strategic approach to Aboriginal issues.

I look forward to the completion of the final document and to building an even stronger relationship with all Aboriginal people and organizations in our province.

2013 05 15                              2:15 p.m.