Western and Territorial Ministers responsible for Aboriginal Affairs discuss how to address emerging challenges

YELLOWKNIFE, NWT, September 5, 2003 -- Ministers responsible for Aboriginal Affairs in the western provinces and the three territories, who represent 70% of the Aboriginal people in Canada, met today in Yellowknife to share information and discuss future direction in working with the federal government. The Honourable Jim Antoine, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs for the Government of the Northwest Territories, hosted the meeting.

“Meetings such as this allow us to determine how our governments can work together with the federal government to improve the wellbeing of Aboriginal people,” said Minister Antoine. “The combination of changing demographics and increased mobility of Aboriginal people requires us to look at new ways of working with the federal government. We are working in an environment of transition, which calls for flexible approaches and creative solutions to common issues.”

Jurisdictions shared information related to land claims and self-government negotiation, consultation practices and Aboriginal participation in the economy. Ministers also discussed federal funding and programming for Aboriginal people.

During their meeting, Western and Territorial Ministers identified topics that they will jointly raise at the next meeting of Federal/Provincial/ Territorial Ministers responsible for Aboriginal Affairs and National Aboriginal Leaders, which is expected to occur in spring 2004.

Ministers agreed to:

• call for enhanced collaboration and planning with the federal government;
• continue working together both at the Western/Territorial level and the national level;
• identify gaps or duplication in programs and services for Aboriginal people;
• continue working with Aboriginal peoples towards their transition to self-government;
• reiterate their commitment to strengthening Aboriginal Participation in the Economy.