FIRST NATIONS AND MÉTIS RELATIONS LAUNCHES NORTHERN ENTERPRISE REGIONS AND 2ND PHASE OF CONSULTATION PROCESS

First Nations and Métis Relations (FNMR) will launch Northern Enterprise Regions in the 2009-10 Budget year and also begin exploratory discussions with First Nations, and Métis people and industry on substantive issues not addressed under the Draft Consultation Policy Framework.

"We are excited to move forward with the Northern Enterprise Regions and we will be consulting with northerners before we proceed," First Nations and Métis Relations Minister June Draude said. "This budget also allows us to begin the exploratory phase which involves parties participating in a collaborative process to discuss issues including sharing in the economic growth, consultation capacity, traditional territories mapping and dispute resolution."

These key budget priorities speak to the ministry's focus on ensuring First Nations, Métis and Northerners can participate in the economic growth of the province.

Northern Enterprise Regions will be initiated so that Northerners can leverage economic development opportunities.

FNMR has designated $500,000 to continue the important work on the Draft Consultation Policy Framework and start the exploratory phase.

The 2009-10 Budget provides an increase of $17.6 million in funds provided to the First Nations Trust, and Community Development Corporations as a result of increased profits at SIGA and SGC casinos.

The 2009-10 Budget will enable FNMR to provide ongoing funding to support programs such as the Aboriginal Employment Development Program, the First Nations and Métis Economic Development Program, and grants to Aboriginal organizations.

Examples of other government programming that supports First Nations and Métis issues include:

• $5.9 million for an Aboriginal Workforce Development Fund aimed at increasing workforce participation by First Nations and Métis people by supporting employment initiatives developed by Community Based Organizations; (Advanced Education, Employment and Labour)
• $250,000 for a First Nations health and well-being plan/Métis relationship table; (Health)
• $265,000 toward planning with Prince Albert Grand Council for a new youth addictions facility; (Health)
• $650,000 for ongoing funding of the Muskeg Lake Diabetes Centre of Excellence; (Health)
• $2.94 million for the Métis Addictions Council of Saskatchewan, a $273,000 increase; (Health)

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For more information, contact:

Bonny Braden
First Nations and Métis Relations
Regina
Phone: 306-787-5701
Email: bonny.braden@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-530-2237