FIRST NATIONS AND MÉTIS CONSULTATION ROUNDTABLE BEGINS

History will be made in Saskatoon next week when a two-day Roundtable Conference opens on Monday.

Representatives from First Nations, Métis, the resource industry and the province are gathering at the Saskatoon Inn for a conference on consultation and accommodation.

"We're keeping a promise made during the election to sit down together and explore ways to assure that everyone has a chance to play a role in the growth of this province," Premier Brad Wall said.

"This historic gathering will provide us with the foundation we need to build a solid consultation policy that benefits First Nations and Métis people and all Saskatchewan residents," First Nations and Métis Relations Minister June Draude said.

Premier Wall, Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations (FSIN) Chief Lawrence Joseph, Métis Nation - Saskatchewan (MNS) President Robert Doucette and Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce President Dale Lemke will make opening remarks Monday. Other speakers and panel members include; author and lawyer Tom Molloy, Gabe LaFond of the MNS, Canadian Natural Resources Ltd. Vice-President Jerry Harvey and Athabasca Basin Development Limited Partnership Chairperson Glen Strong. First Nations and Métis Relations Minister June Draude will provide final closing remarks.

Day one is open to the media for the entire day with the Call to Order scheduled for 9 a.m. Day two will be devoted to small group sessions, which are closed to the media. Later on Tuesday, media are invited to rejoin the roundtable for a recap of the day at 2:15 p.m. and closing remarks. Media accreditation and information will be available on-site.

Governments have a legal obligation to consult with First Nations and Métis people when their decisions or activities could impact Treaty or Aboriginal rights. The Provincial government sees this roundtable as the beginning of a healthy dialogue that will lead to next steps.

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For more information, contact:

Alethea Foster
First Nations and Métis Relations
Regina
Phone: 306-787-5701
Email: afoster@fnmr.gov.sk.ca

Bonny Braden
Media Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0906
Email: bonny.braden@gov.sk.ca