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MoU signed for more Indigenous involvement in regulation discussions
The Memorandum will ensure Indigneous leaders are at the table when governments are discussing regulations on matters of shared concern
A Memorandum of Understanding has been signed between the GNWT and the Department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada.
This MoU is centered on strengthening collaborations between Indigenous governments and organizations with other government departments.
The MoU was signed in Toronto by the Honourable Rebecca Chartrand, Minister of Northern and Arctic Affairs, and the Honourable Jay Macdonald, Minister of Environment and Climate Change. Premier R.J. Simpson was also in attendance for the signing, during the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada convention.
The MoU was signed by the Honourable Rebecca Chartrand, Minister of Northern and Arctic Affairs, and the Honourable Jay Macdonald, Minister of Environment and Climate Change. (Photo supplied by: Sameeksha Dandriyal/GNWT)
In a statement on the signing, Premier Simpson said that the MoU “reflects our shared commitment to making the Northwest Territories’ regulatory system stronger, more coordinated, and more predictable, all while respecting Indigenous rights and ensuring rigorous environmental oversight.
“By working more closely with Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada, we are improving alignment, reducing duplication, and supporting the partners who play a central role in these processes. This agreement is a practical step toward responsible development that delivers long-term benefits for Northerners.”
The MoU sets out to improve clarity and consistency in regulations and legislation when working with Indigenous governments in matters of shared concern. The MoU will also commit government departments to looking into opportunities to align federal and territorial funding mechanisms in order to support the participation of Indigenous governments.
Minister Jay Macdonald shared his own words on the signing.
“Strengthening regulatory coordination is an essential part to advance the Northwest Territories’ economic, environmental, and infrastructure priorities. This Memorandum of Understanding shows our shared commitment with Canada and Indigenous governments to clear, efficient, and collaborative regulatory processes.
“It is by working together through our co-management systems that we are responsibly supporting sustainable development, improving predictability for proponents, and ensuring that decisions continue to reflect northern values and respect Indigenous rights.”
Additionally, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, Rebecca Alty, said that the NWT is built on modern treaties and shared decision making, and this latest MoU will help protect Indigenous rights and the environment.
