YELLOWKNIFE (June 11, 2012) – The GNWT has made a formal commitment to a set of principles and key actions to strengthen and renew relationships with its Aboriginal government partners. “Respect, Recognition, Responsibility: The Government of the Northwest Territories’ Approach to Engaging with Aboriginal Governments” was developed based on discussions with Aboriginal governments and community leaders. It has been produced in all NWT official languages.
“We need to build strong relationships at all levels – leaders, senior managers and all staff,” said Bob McLeod, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Intergovernmental Relations. “Aboriginal governments are our partners as we work together to serve the people we represent. Our government is committed to a new approach to building greater collaboration and participation, so we can all achieve our shared goals in a spirit of mutual respect, recognition and responsibility.”
“Respect, Recognition, Responsibility” affirms that the GNWT will:
- continue to recognize and respect the constitutionally protected rights and treaty rights of Aboriginal peoples, as well as existing Aboriginal rights agreements;
- be open, flexible and responsive in working with the diverse governance structures of regional Aboriginal governments and understanding the unique interests and challenges of each region and community; and
- will make every effort to share information and knowledge, help build capacity, enhance our government’s participation at Annual General Assemblies and other important events, and establish regular formal meetings with each Aboriginal government in the NWT.
The Aboriginal Engagement Strategy supports the 17th Legislative Assembly’s priority of strengthening relationships with Aboriginal governments, as outlined in Believing in Our People and Building on the Strengths of Northerners.
For more information, contact:
Megan Holsapple
Media Liaison
Office of the Premier and Executive Council
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: (867) 669-2302
Fax: (867) 873-0111