Yellowknife (February 13, 2014) – Premier Bob McLeod added his signature to those of Acho Dene Koe First Nation Chief Harry Deneron and Fort Liard Métis Local President Ernie McLeod to the Acho Dene Koe First Nation and Fort Liard Métis Agreement in Principle. The Agreement in Principle has now been forwarded to the Federal Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, the Honourable Bernard Valcourt, for his approval. Once signed by all parties the Agreement-in-Principle will bring this land claim and self-government agreement one step closer conclusion. Nahendeh MLA Kevin Menicoche witnessed the Premier’s signing.

“Aboriginal governments are critical partners in helping the Government of the Northwest Territories create a strong, prosperous NWT that provides opportunities in all our communities and regions”, said Premier McLeod. “This signing is an important step along the journey of providing clarity and certainty on the land and resource rights of the Acho Dene Koe First Nation within the Northwest Territories.”

“Today’s signing is an important step towards a positive future for the people of the Acho Dene Koe First Nation,” said Chief Deneron. “Our people look forward to joining with the Government of the Northwest Territories in creating a strong, prosperous Northwest Territories where we can all succeed.”

When signed by all parties negotiations will continue towards concluding a final agreement on land and resources and self-government. The final agreement will deal with land, financial payments, harvesting (plants, trees, wildlife, fish and migratory birds), public community government and a range of other issues related to the community of Fort Liard settlement lands and citizenship.

For more information:

Fred Talen 
Director 
Negotiations
Department of Aboriginal Affairs and Intergovernmental Relations
Government of the Northwest Territories
P.O. Box 1320 | Yellowknife, NT | X1A 2L9
Tel: 1-867-873-7388& | Fax: 1-867-873-0593
www.gov.nt.ca