Mr. Speaker, on September 12th negotiations towards a Deline Final Self-Government Agreement reached a significant milestone. After many years, the negotiators have agreed on the draft text of a Final Self-Government Agreement and financial agreement. This achievement is important as it lays the basis for the parties to ratify the final agreement. As Mr. Yakeleya noted when this was announced last month, the move towards self-government complements the Sahtu Comprehensive Dene and Metis Land Claim and gives Deline the opportunity to make their own history.
Mr. Speaker, this government’s goal of a strong and independent North built on partnerships depends on the successful conclusion of land, resources and self-government agreements.
The Deline Final Self-Government Agreement is the next step in political evolution for the people of Deline. When completed, it will contribute to greater political autonomy and economic self-reliance. The residents of Deline will have decision-making powers over matters that affect the well-being of their language, culture and community. More importantly, the Deline First Nation government will be able to make laws that shape the programs and services that are important to the daily lives of their residents.
While a number of steps remain before the Deline Self-Government Agreement will be ratified, this milestone is an excellent example of partners working together and achieving results. Over the coming months, the parties will review the documents internally and decide whether to approve them. The next step will be for the negotiators to initial the draft Final Self-Government Agreement and financial agreement.
Mr. Speaker, once ratified, the Deline Self-Government Agreement will be the first stand-alone self-government agreement in the Northwest Territories. It will provide the Sahtu Dene and Metis of Deline the means to implement their Aboriginal right to self-government and strengthen their community, and create new business, investment and job opportunities. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Thank you, Mr. McLeod. The honourable Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment, Mr. Ramsay.
