Whitehorse, Yukon (February 9, 2012) – First Nation, Yukon and federal government representatives will come together to share ideas and information about governance at the fourth annual First Nation Governance and Capacity Development Conference: Foundations for Our Future at the Yukon Inn, Whitehorse, February 9 and 10.
The conference, hosted by the Government of Yukon, Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada (AANDC), and the Council of Yukon First Nations, will include plenary and breakout sessions, panels and networking opportunities on topics ranging from governance, capacity building, economic and land development to mentoring.
Yukon is pleased to co-host this conference which provides an excellent opportunity for Canada, Yukon and First Nation governments to come together to work on governance capacity development and to share new tools and ideas,
Premier Darrell Pasloski said. This forum helps First Nations grow as governments and become full partners in Yukon's economic future.
This year's keynote speaker is Chief Clarence Louie of the Osoyoos Indian Band. The south Okanagan Valley band has created the Nk'Mip Desert Cultural Centre to promote and preserve Okanagan language and culture, and has also established a number of innovative business ventures providing employment for hundreds of people.
The conference will also include presentations by the First Nation of Na-Cho Nyak Dün and Champagne and Aishihik First Nations featuring new resources and materials created under the Northern Strategy Trust Fund. These tools provide best practices that can be tailored to meet the individual needs of First Nations across Yukon.
I am proud of Canada's support for this conference, bringing people together to facilitate knowledge exchange and capacity growth that benefits First Nations in Yukon and Northern British Columbia,
said John Duncan, federal Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development. Long-term prosperity comes through ensuring strong foundations of governance, which benefit all Canadians.
When we look at all our options available to make collective decisions for the betterment of our people, it gives us a sense of achievement and great hope for the future. As Yukon First Nations, we envision working together on the implementation of our self-government agreements, educating and preparing our next generation of leaders, charting a brighter future for all of us,
Council of Yukon First Nations Grand Chief Ruth Massie said.
The conference is funded by the Government of Yukon and AANDC.
Jan O'Driscoll
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable John Duncan
819-997-0002
Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada
819-953-1160
Stefanie Richardson
Communications
867-667-8968
stefanie.richardson@gov.yk.ca
Katy Mead
Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada
Yukon Regional Office
867-667-3810
Amanda Leslie
Mosaic Communications
867-334-4770
amanda@amandaleslie.ca
