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MI'KMAQ CHIEFS, NOVA SCOTIA AND CANADA SET TO BEGIN FORMAL TRIPARTITE NEGOTIATION PROCESS

HALIFAX, NOVA SCOTIA (June 7, 2002) - The thirteen Mi'kmaq Chiefs of Nova Scotia, the Honourable Michael G. Baker, Q.C. on behalf of the Province of Nova Scotia and the Honourable Robert D. Nault on behalf of the Government of Canada, today signed an Umbrella Agreement which reaffirms their longstanding relationship and commitment to work together in good faith to resolve issues of mutual concern.

Specifically, the parties will continue with the existing Mi'kmaq-Nova Scotia-Canada Tripartite Forum as well as engage in a broad negotiations process in Nova Scotia to consider issues of asserted Aboriginal rights (including title) and treaty rights. The parties have also agreed to establish a consultation process.

In January 2001, the Parties released a joint statement regarding their willingness to work together to resolve outstanding Aboriginal issues including the long-term implementation of the Marshall decision. The Umbrella Agreement reaffirms this commitment and defines the process for moving forward.

This historic signing ceremony took place in the Red Chamber of Province house. The Parties will now begin Framework Agreement negotiations where they will identify the issues to be negotiated, goals, procedures and a timetable for negotiations.

"The Mi'kmaq of Nova Scotia are pleased to be entering a process that will ultimately recognize and implement the rights of our people," said Chief Lawrence Paul. "In the final analysis," added Chief Terrance Paul, "recognition and implementation of the rights of the Mi'kmaq in Nova Scotia will not only bring dignity and prosperity to our communities, but will show all Nova Scotians that partnership is the only way to create a better society."

"This is a significant step in our effort to resolve treaty and related issues through negotiations," said Minister Baker. "It's the first time that such a comprehensive process has been undertaken in Nova Scotia and I look forward to working on behalf of Nova Scotians with the Government of Canada and the Mi'kmaq of Nova Scotia on these matters."

Minister Nault congratulated all parties on their commitment to the process.

"I am happy with the progress we have achieved since announcing our intention to work together to resolve mutual issues," said Minister Nault. "We have made a strong commitment to improve the quality of life in Aboriginal communities and we have reached the stage which allows us to sit at the same table to devise the building blocks of a prosperous future together.

For further information, please contact:

Michael FitzPatrick
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
Media Relations
(819) 994-2044

John Soosaar
Nova Scotia Office of Aboriginal Affairs
(902) 424-7409

Donald Julien
Confederacy of Mainland Mi'kmaq
(902) 895-6385

Joe B. Marshall
Union of Nova Scotia Indians
(902) 564-4313

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