YELLOWKNIFE (April 20, 2012) – The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) joins with the Gwich’in and all the people of the Northwest Territories to mark the 20th anniversary of the signing of the Gwich’in Comprehensive Land Claim Agreement. Premier McLeod offered his congratulations to the Gwich’in Tribal Council at Dene Leadership Meetings in Inuvik earlier this week.
The Gwich’in Comprehensive Land Claim Agreement was signed by the Government of Canada, the Government of the Northwest Territories and the Gwich’in Tribal Council on April 22, 1992. The Agreement was established to recognize and encourage the Gwich’in way of life and enhance their ability to participate fully in all aspects of the economy. The Agreement provides the Gwich’in with defined rights and a voice in decision making related to land, water, and wildlife harvesting and management within the Gwich’in Settlement Area.
“The Gwich’in Comprehensive Land Claim Agreement was one more step to self-sufficiency and gave the Gwich’in greater ability to control their future,” said Premier Bob McLeod. “Building a strong, prosperous and sustainable territory is a priority for the Government of the Northwest Territories. We remain committed to working closely with the Gwich’in and all Aboriginal governments to realize this vision on behalf of all our residents.”
Minister Robert C. McLeod will represent the Government of the Northwest Territories at 20th anniversary celebrations being held in Inuvik.
For more information:
Megan Holsapple
Media Liaison
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: (867) 669-2302
Fax: (867) 873-0111