Mr. Speaker, on April 22, 1992, the Gwich’in Tribal Council, Government of the Northwest Territories and the Government of Canada signed the Gwich’in Comprehensive Land Claim Agreement. This coming April will mark the 20th anniversary of that historic day.
On behalf of the Government of the Northwest Territories, I would like to congratulate the Gwich’in people on reaching this significant milestone. Since 1992, the Gwich’in have worked hard to play an important role in the economy and benefit fully from the opportunities available to them.
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. It gave the Gwich’in, within the Gwich’in settlement area, defined rights to land, water and wildlife and the ability to take part in decisions about how these resources are managed. It also supported the Gwich’in way of life, one based on traditional relationships with the land.
Mr. Speaker, this government’s goal of a strong and independent North built on partnerships is dependent on the successful conclusion of land, resources and self-government agreements.
I look forward to working closely with the Gwich’in Tribal Council to strengthen our relationships as governments. I’m confident that as we continue down this path, we will realize our vision as strong individuals, families and communities sharing the benefits and responsibilities of a unified, environmentally sustainable and prosperous Northwest Territories.
Mr. Speaker, the Gwich’in Comprehensive Land Claim Agreement represents a commitment by all parties to a brighter future, one based on the recognition of Aboriginal rights and the social and cultural identity of the Gwich’in people, within the Canadian constitutional framework. I look forward to our ongoing work with the Gwich’in people to fulfill the vision that entered a new phase 20 years ago. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Thank you, Mr. McLeod. Mr. Ramsay.
