Message from the Minister and
Accountability Statement

I am pleased to deliver the Service Plan for the Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation. This Plan gives me the opportunity to describe the practical and measurable actions the Ministry will undertake over the next three fiscal years to develop a new relationship with First Nations, Métis and Aboriginal organizations. This new relationship will be based on mutual respect and recognition.

In every ministry and every sector we are developing new working partnerships with Aboriginal citizens that will move us beyond the barriers of the past. We are building a new relationship that is honourable, constructive and grounded in immediate and practical progress for all British Columbians.

We are negotiating treaties and other agreements in order to materially improve the lives of First Nations and to achieve greater certainty over Crown lands and resources. Treaties and other agreements will stimulate investment, create jobs and expand economies in communities throughout British Columbia and provide a better quality of life for Aboriginal families.

The Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation 2006/07–2008/09 Service Plan was prepared under my direction in accordance with the Budget Transparency and Accountability Act. I am accountable for the basis on which the plan has been prepared. All material fiscal assumptions and policy decisions as of February 15, 2006 have been considered in preparing this plan, and I am accountable for achieving the specific objectives in it.

 

Honourable Tom Christensen
Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation

February 15, 2006