2-02134

CANADA, NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR AND THE FEDERATION OF NEWFOUNDLAND INDIANS ENTER EXPLORATORY DISCUSSIONS

St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador (April 12, 2002) - The Government of Canada, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and the Federation of Newfoundland Indians (FNI) will immediately begin exploratory discussions to determine if there is a basis for negotiating FNI access to certain programs and services.

Robert D. Nault, Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, Ernest McLean, Minister of Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs for the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, and Mr. Brendan Sheppard, President of the Federation of Newfoundland Indians made the announcement today.

The Federal Government has appointed former cabinet minister the Honourable Marc Lalonde as its special representative on this file. The FNI will be represented by Mr. Shayne McDonald, an Aboriginal lawyer and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador will be represented by the Department of Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs. The three party discussions are strictly exploratory in nature, conducted without prejudice to any other proceeding, including those currently before the courts, and are solely to determine whether a clear framework for negotiation can be established. A period of six months has been set aside to take on this task.

"These exploratory discussions are an example of leadership in action. We all agree that no good comes from arguing about the past. Instead, real leadership is facing today's challenges in a spirit of fairness and with sound judgement and forging alliances to fulfill the promise of days to come," said Minister Nault. "I am confident that the parties will do their utmost to identify a framework for the resolution of issues by agreement, rather than by litigation."

"I am pleased that these exploratory discussions are being held," said Minister McLean. "I believe they will provide clarity to the FNI and its membership."

"I view the exploratory discussion process as a very significant and sincere endeavour by Minister Nault to comprehend the expectations of the Mi'kmaq people of Newfoundland." said Mr. Sheppard. "I am confident that at the end of this process we will all share in a reasonable and acceptable solution."

The FNI has a membership of about 4,000 people in Newfoundland and Labrador.

For further information, contact:

Debra Ackles Adams
Manager, Communications
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
Atlantic Region
(902) 661-6372

Bert Pomeroy
Communications
Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs
Government of Newfoundland and Labrador
(709) 896-8668

Mr. Brendan Sheppard
President, Federation of Newfoundland Indians
(709) 634-0996

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