Canada Announces Improved Additions to Reserve Process to Advance Reconciliation with First Nations and Promote Economic Development
News Release
July 27, 2016 – Ottawa (ON) – Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada
The Government of Canada is committed to improving the process for creating new reserves and adding land to existing reserves.
The Honourable Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs, today announced that the Government of Canada is taking a key step to renew its relationship with First Nations, with the introduction of a new Policy Directive on Additions to Reserve/Reserve Creation.
The new Policy Directive will help streamline the Additions to Reserve process, clarify roles and responsibilities of the First Nation and other stakeholders and promote better collaboration between all concerned parties such as municipalities.
Additions to reserves enable Canada to fulfil legal obligations established by specific claim settlements and compensate First Nations for lands owed under historic treaties. Expanding the reserve land base is also an important mechanism by which First Nations can foster community and economic development.
Quote
"This new Policy Directive will better meet the needs of all our Indigenous and non-Indigenous partners. The goal is to make the Additions to Reserve process more efficient and transparent, helping to advance reconciliation with First Nations, improve treaty relationships and create new economic opportunities for First Nation communities."
The Honourable Carolyn Bennett, M.D., P.C., M.P.,
Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs
Quick facts
- The federal Additions to Reserve Policy was created in 1972 and updated in 2001.
- An extensive engagement process was undertaken with First Nations and stakeholders to help shape the revised Policy, including close collaboration with the Assembly of First Nations.
- From 2000 to 2015, 1,561,985 acres have been added to the reserve land base of 203 First Nation communities across Canada.
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Contacts
Sabrina Williams
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Carolyn Bennett
819-997-0002
Media Relations
Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada
819-953-1160
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