2-02438

MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT SIGNING FOR TREATY RELATIONS COMMISSION IN MANITOBA

WINNIPEG, MANITOBA (November 19, 2003) - The Honourable Robert D. Nault, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Dennis White Bird, Grand Chief of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs, today will sign a Memorandum of Agreement between the Government of Canada and Manitoba First Nations to establish a Treaty Relations Commission at a formal signing ceremony.

The new Treaty Relations Commission in Manitoba will function as an independent and impartial office. It will have a mandate to engage in public education activities to improve understanding of the treaty relationship and treaty-related issues, provide facilitation services for discussing treaty issues, and conduct independent research.

"Mutual understanding is critical to the success of any relationship. It is important that all Canadians learn about Aboriginal people, their history, their culture and the contemporary concerns," said Minister Nault. "Establishment of the Treaty Relations Commission in Manitoba will provide a forum for discussion and education on historical treaties and treaty issues."

"It is important for the Canadian people to understand the fundamental role of treaties and the contribution of First Nations people in the development of Canada." said Grand Chief Dennis White Bird. "Our leadership sees the Treaty Relations Commission in Manitoba as a significant step to respecting the sacred treaties between the First Nations and the Crown. It marks the beginning of implementing the treaty relationship and appreciation of First Nations oral history and understanding of the spirit and intent of the treaties."

The Commission will be established by April 1, 2004 and be located in Winnipeg. A Treaty Commissioner will be appointed within the next few months.

For further information, contact:

Vera Houle
Communications Advisor
Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
(204) 987-4146

Patricia Valladao
Media Relations
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
(819) 997-8404

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