April 2, 2015 – Ottawa, ON – Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada
The Honourable Bernard Valcourt, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, today released a report from Douglas Eyford, Ministerial Special Representative on Renewing the Comprehensive Land Claims Policy. This report was presented to Minister Valcourt by Mr. Eyford, who was appointed in July 2014 to lead engagement with Aboriginal groups on the Comprehensive Land Claims Policy.
To this end, over the past six months, Mr. Eyford met with representatives from more than 100 Aboriginal groups, federal, provincial and territorial governments and industry. The purpose of Mr. Eyford's report is to summarize what was heard during this engagement and inform ongoing work to renew and reform the Government of Canada's approach to comprehensive land claims.
Over the coming months, the Government of Canada will be engaging with Aboriginal groups as well as other stakeholders, including those who provided input during these engagement meetings, in order to seek their feedback on Mr. Eyford's recommendations. The Government will then carefully review and consider this additional feedback along with Mr. Eyford's recommendations.
Today's announcement is a key step toward a new reconciliation framework that will provide clarity about ongoing rights and unlock the economic benefits of negotiated solutions for all Canadians. Advancing this ongoing work will lead to a more predictable climate for economic investment and increased prosperity for Aboriginal communities.
Emily Hillstrom
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development
819-997-0002
Media Relations
Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada
819-953-1160
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