The tripartite forum will provide an opportunity for the Government of Canada, the Government of British Columbia and B.C. First Nation Leaders to share information, identify common interests and align efforts on regional and province-wide issues directly impacting Aboriginal participation in the development of energy infrastructure and natural resources on Canada’s West Coast.
The work of the forum will be flexible and geared to help advance a strategic dialogue among the principle parties. It will advance a dialogue and identify opportunities for Aboriginal leaders and the Governments of Canada and British Columbia to align their actions on B.C. energy projects. These members will work together to determine the scope of the forum’s work. Key issues of shared interest may include:
- greater skills training and employment for First Nations;
- First Nations participation in business development opportunities from energy and natural resource projects; and
- First Nations participation in marine and pipeline safety systems.
The forum will be supported by the Major Projects Management Office West which will coordinate activities across multiple Government of Canada programs to support the involvement of First Nations in West Coast energy development.
The creation of a tripartite forum responds to the recommendation in the Eyford Report that “Canada, represented by senior officials should participate in a working group with Aboriginal leaders and the government of British Columbia as a venue to advance open and practical dialogue about each party’s issues and interests including the recommendations in this report.”
Media may contact:
Alexandra Lemieux
Press Secretary
Office of Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources and Minister for the Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario
613-996-2007
or
Media Relations
Natural Resources Canada
Ottawa
613-992-4447
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