PROVINCE AWAITS FIRST NATIONS AND MÉTIS CONSULTATION POLICIES

The province will release the new Consultation Policy Framework (CPF) after the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations (FSIN) and the Métis Nation - Saskatchewan (MNS) release their consultation position papers in March of 2010.

"We want to build our relationships with First Nations and Métis people so the right thing to do is to wait until they release their own consultation policies," First Nations and Métis Relations Minister Bill Hutchinson said. "We make First Nations and Métis our priority."

In the meantime, consultation activity will continue to be governed by the Government of Saskatchewan Interim Guide for Consultation with First Nations and Métis People.

First Nations and Métis Relations officials continue their planning for a dialogue process that will focus on issues that fall outside the CPF including traditional use and territory mapping, consultation capacity, dispute resolution, economic benefit sharing and environmental stewardship.

Through this dialogue, officials from First Nations, Métis, industry and government will explore mechanisms that will create better participation in the economy for Aboriginal people.

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For more information, contact:

Shelley Fayant
First Nations and Métis Relations
Regina
Phone: 306-798-4071
Email: Shelley.Fayant@gov.sk.ca