These discussions involve three parties: the Akaitcho Dene First Nations, the Government of Canada and the Government of the Northwest Territories. Each negotiation process is unique in its own circumstances, goals and needs. Generally, discussions proceed through several distinct stages as follows:

FRAMEWORK AGREEMENT: The first stage defines the issues and subject matters to be discussed, the process to be followed and the time table.

AGREEMENT IN PRINCIPLE: During the course of the negotiations on the subject matters set out in the Framework Agreement, decisions are made. When a conclusion is reached on a subject matter, it is set down in an Agreement-in-Principle. Its content and format are unique to the negotiation. Commonly called an AIP, the Agreement-in-Principle often takes longer than other stages in the negotiation process. All the substantive issues are usually addressed and included in the AIP.

AKAITCHO AGREEMENT: The Akaitcho Agreement will incorporate the details of the agreements reached among the parties at the conclusion of the process. It must be ratified by all the parties and signed by the principles.

IMPLEMENTATION PLAN: An important aspect of the discussions among the parties relates to the implementation of the Akaitcho Agreement. The implementation plan, that will accompany the Akaitcho Agreement, will be developed by all three parties to ensure that the Akaitcho Agreement will be put into effect giving life to the discussions that have taken place within the three previous stages.

For more information please call:

Cathy Jewison
Senior Communications Officer
DIAND,
Yellowknife
(867) 669-2435
jewisonc@ainc-inac.gc.ca

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