Nishnawbe Aski Nation Agreement-in-Principle

Overview

The First Nations of Nishnawbe Aski Nation and the Government of Canada reached a major milestone in their journey toward reconciliation and renewed nation-to-nation relationships by signing an education Agreement-in-Principle on December 5, 2018.

Nishnawbe Aski Nation represents 49 First Nations, with a total population of approximately 49,000 members and 10,000 students.

Background to the negotiations

In 1997, the parties commenced education jurisdiction negotiations.  Following the signing of the Framework Agreement in 1999, the parties began negotiating an Agreement-in-Principle. 

Although the parties developed a draft Agreement-in-Principle in 2009, it was determined that more work was required to clarify an education model, and negotiations were paused. 

Negotiations were rejuvenated in 2016 to reflect Canada’s current approaches to reconciliation and Nishnawbe Aski Nation’s renewed vision for restoration of education jurisdiction through a territory-wide education system.

This vision was shaped by community engagement. Outreach and consultation with First Nation members will continue during the final agreement negotiations.

The signed Agreement-in-Principle establishes the framework for negotiations towards a final self-government agreement on education. The final agreement will be approved by community member vote.