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STRATER CROWFOOT TAKES ON NEW CHALLENGES AT INDIAN TAXATION ADVISORY BOARD

CALGARY, Alberta, November 28, 2003 - Indian Oil and Gas Canada (IOGC) will be undergoing some executive level organizational change in the coming months. Strater Crowfoot, who has held the position of Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of IOGC for over seven years, has decided to step down to pursue other opportunities. Mr. Crowfoot has been elected Head Chief of the Siksika Nation and has accepted an appointment as Chairman of the Indian Taxation Advisory Board (ITAB), effective December 1, 2003.

Mr. Crowfoot's tenure at IOGC has been highlighted by significant achievements in modernizing IOGC and ensuring it is on sound operational footing for the future. His pragmatic approach has transformed IOGC into a genuine partner with First Nations in the management of their petroleum resources.

Through his commitment and determination, he has effectively improved the relationship between IOGC and First Nations, while solidifying the working relationship with the Indian Resource Council (IRC), which represents more than 120 First Nations with oil and gas interests. He has also been instrumental in consulting with First Nations and putting in place the joint process currently underway to prepare potential legislation to modernize the Indian Oil and Gas Act and provide optional legislation for First Nations to take control of their own oil and gas resources and Indian monies held in the Consolidated Revenue Fund. As Chief Executive, Mr. Crowfoot's commitment to First Nation employment is also evident as IOGC boasts one of the highest percentages of Aboriginal employees in the federal government.

Mr. Bill Currie, General Manager, Production, will assume the position as Acting Executive Director/CEO until the resourcing process is completed.

IOGC is a special operating agency within the Department of Indian Affairs and Northern Development (INAC) mandated to fulfill the Crown's fiduciary and statutory obligations related to the management of oil and gas resources on First Nation lands and to further First Nation initiatives to manage and control their oil and gas resources.

The Government of Canada is committed to working with First Nations to improve the quality of life and self-sufficiency of First Nations by providing access to an efficient and effective oil and gas regime for First Nations with oil and gas interests. Current changes within IOGC will not affect the day-to-day-business and operations of the organization or dealings with industry. Work in assisting First Nations with their oil gas interests will continue as usual.

For further information, please contact:

Indian Oil and Gas Canada (IOGC)

Bill Currie
General Manager, Production
IOGC
(403) 292-6023

Kelsy Uhryn
Manager, Communications and Executive Services
IOGC
(403) 292-6369

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