March 12, 2010
by: Chris Kornacki/Wawatay News
Grand Council of Treaty 3, the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Ministry of Northern Development, Mines and Forestry have committed to work together to develop economic growth in the Treaty 3 region.
The letter of commitment was signed March 12 during a relationship forum in Wabigoon.
“Today we reaffirm a shared spirit of partnership and commitment that will help us further advance the economic goals of Grand Council Treaty 3, and promote natural resource management decisions that respect Aboriginal and treaty rights,” Linda Jeffrey, Minister of Natural Resources said.
The recent signing supports a letter of intent signed a year ago by the same three parties. Since last year the Treaty 3 region has seen hiring of two resource sector coordinators; community information sessions; educational and information sharing presentations; development of communication and consultation tools and research projects related to resource development; and the Grand Council’s participation in economic development, lands and resources, mineral exploration and mining meetings and conferences.
“The Grand Council Treaty 3 is engaged in this new relationship that will bridge communication gaps, inform these ministries of our priorities and concerns, and ensure that opportunities made available through Ontario initiatives are facilitated by improved information sharing and, where possible, direct coordination and support,” Ogichidaakwe Diane Kelly, Grand Chief of Grand Council Treaty 3 said.