News Release

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First Nations, Canada and Ontario Renew Relationship

Chiefs Of Ontario, Federal And Provincial Ministers To Hold Regular Forums

Toronto – First Nations leaders, Canada and Ontario have agreed to re-establish an intergovernmental forum to revitalize relations among the governments.

This agreement was reached today after a teleconference among Charles Fox, Ontario Regional Chief of the Chiefs of Ontario, Andy Scott, federal Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Michael J. Bryant, Ontario Minister Responsible for Native Affairs.

"First Nations leaders from across Ontario are looking forward to building quality working relationships with the federal and provincial governments," said Chief Fox. "This builds on the momentum achieved last week when the Ontario Political Confederacy met with provincial ministers and agreed to embark on a new and improved relationship between the First Nations and Ontario."

"I am honoured to be participating in this process," said Minister Scott. "This forum presents an excellent opportunity to work together through co-operative dialogue to strengthen relationships and to build a better future for First Nations people."

"We have agreed to work towards planning an intergovernmental forum of provincial and federal ministers, and First Nations leaders, within the next few months," said Minister Bryant. "Future meetings will occur once or twice a year."

During the teleconference, the three parties confirmed their commitments to revitalize First Nations - Canada - Ontario intergovernmental relations, and to authorize senior officials to follow-up and implement recommendations. Recommendations include the establishment of an intergovernmental forum that includes key leadership meetings and sectoral discussions.

"This new forum will promote more effective relationships between First Nations, Canada and Ontario, and reflects our government's commitment to deliver real, positive change for Aboriginal communities across Ontario," said Bryant.

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Contacts:

Greg Crone
Minister's Office
416-326-1785
 

Kimberly Whetung
The Chiefs of Ontario Office
(705) 875-5576
 

Related links: Chiefs of Ontario
Aboriginal Business Development Online

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