The Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor) will invest $208,322 in two projects that will provide increased opportunities for Yukon First Nations to participate in the resource sector.
Alaska Highway Aboriginal Pipeline Coalition – $110,272
The funding will support the Alaska Highway Aboriginal Pipeline Coalition (AHAPC) to develop and facilitate a three-day workshop. At the workshop, First Nations, governments, and industry will review and assess the outcome of implementing a guidelines document developed by the AHAPC.
The guidelines document includes reference tools and a roadmap on processes and issues associated with First Nations participation in the pipeline project. It identifies roles and responsibilities that the AHAPC considers necessary for respectful relationships and participation. It also provides guidance for the inclusion of Yukon First Nations in the environmental assessment process.
The AHAPC was formed specifically to assess and communicate the environmental and socio-economic implications of the proposed Alaska Highway gas pipeline for Yukon First Nations. The AHAPC was registered in 2004 as a non-profit society. Between 2008 and 2010, the SINED program contributed $258,815 to AHAPC for the Guidelines Project. The objective for the project is to help First Nation governments work with industry and governments involved in the Alaska Highway Pipeline project.
First Nation of Na-Cho Nyak Dun – $98,050
With this investment the First Nation of Na-Cho Nyak Dun can hire a negotiating team to develop a Socio-Economic Partnership Agreement between Victoria Gold Corp and the First Nation of Na-Cho Nyak Dun. The Agreement concerns the construction and operation of the Eagle Gold project. The Agreement will address training, employment, business, and contracting opportunities for Na-Cho Nyak Dun citizens, as well as develop a mechanism for ongoing communication and implementation of the Agreement.
The First Nation of Na-Cho Nyak Dun resides in the community of Mayo, Yukon. As a self-governing First Nation, the First Nation of Na-Cho Nyak Dun makes laws on behalf of their citizens and their lands.
These investments were made possible through CanNor’s Strategic Investments in Northern Economic Development (SINED) program, which focuses on long-term economic growth, economic diversification and capacity building in all three territories.
