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RAYMOND CHRÉTIEN APPOINTED CHIEF FEDERAL NEGOTIATOR FOR JAMES BAY AND NORTHERN QUEBEC AGREEMENT NEGOTIATIONS

OTTAWA (ONTARIO), August 19, 2004 - The Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development Andy Scott today made public the appointment of Mr. Raymond Chrétien as the Chief Federal Negotiator on negotiations with the James Bay Cree.

"The implementation of the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement has been an ongoing challenge and I am delighted that Mr. Chrétien has accepted this task," said Minister Scott. "Mr.Chrétien's extensive knowledge and first-hand experience in complex negotiations and trade agreements will bring a new and dynamic perspective to the James Bay Cree negotiations. This appointment is also indicative of the Government of Canada's commitment to resolving the outstanding issues with the James Bay Cree in a co-operative manner."

Raymond Chrétien retired at the beginning of 2004 from the federal public service after almost 38 years of service. He has recently joined the Montreal office of Fasken Martineau a Canadian and international law firm as strategic advisor. During his public career he served as Canada's ambassador to the UnitedStates, France, Mexico, Belgium and Luxemburg, and Zaire.

Earlier in his career he held key assignments in Ottawa with the Privy Council Office, the Treasury Board Secretariat and the Canadian International Development Agency.

As part of his mandate, Mr. Chrétien, will undertake negotiations with the Grand Council of the Crees of Quebec aimed at implementing the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement, and settling related litigation.

The appointment was initiated to ensure continued momentum in these important negotiations. Mr. Chrétien and his team held an initial meeting with the Cree on July 13, 2004 and will continue to meet in the coming weeks.

The James Bay Cree signed the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement in 1975. An implementation agreement was not negotiated at that time. There are nine communities with a population of approximately 14,000.

For further information please contact:

Patricia Valladao
Office of the Minister
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
(819) 994-7630

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