NEW GOVERNMENT KEEPS DUTY TO CONSULT PROMISE

Premier Brad Wall announced today that a two-day round-table conference in May will help form a new policy to ensure Saskatchewan First Nations and Métis people become true partners in Saskatchewan's economy and future.

"We made a promise during the election to show leadership on duty to consult and we're keeping it," Wall said. "I want it to be made clear that First Nations and Métis people are a very important part of this government's plan for the future. Industries and businesses looking to invest in this province need to know that First Nations and Métis people are our partners and need to be respected and involved in Saskatchewan's economy."

The new policy will protect the rights and interests of First Nations and Métis people and result in increased economic development opportunities that will benefit all Saskatchewan residents.

The two-day roundtable conference on May 12 and 13, 2008 in Saskatoon, will involve First Nations, Métis, industry and other key interest groups. The goal will be to find common ground which will provide the framework of the new policy. First Nations and Métis groups will be involved in developing the conference agenda.

"I am very pleased that the new Government of Saskatchewan is following through on its commitment to review its duty to consult with First Nations people, and that it is seeking input from all Saskatchewan First Nations," Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations Chief Lawrence Joseph said. "We have a number of concerns and suggestions and we look forward to the opportunity to ensure that those are addressed as a new government First Nations consultation plan is developed."

The President of the Métis Nation-Saskatchewan, Robert Doucette is also pleased. "I'm looking forward to getting Métis input into the Aboriginal consultation policy," Doucette said. "The government's duty to consult and accommodate is also applicable to Métis people and we want to ensure our concerns and interests are also addressed as we move into the future."

"I believe our relationship with First Nations and Métis people must be built on mutual respect and consensus building," First Nations and Métis Relations Minister June Draude said. "I am looking forward to working to develop our new approach together. The goal of our government is to work with First Nations and Métis people to resolve a variety of common issues."

Governments have a legal requirement to consult with First Nations and Métis people when its decisions or activities could potentially impact Treaty or Aboriginal rights. Saskatchewan First Nations and Métis groups have expressed concerns about the approach of the previous government.

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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
Cell: 306-541-7068