Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. The negotiations process is a path that is taken when the parties believe they can make an agreement. My hope is that the Government of the Northwest Territories and the Dehcho First Nations still believe they can work together.
Recently, the GNWT made an offer to the Dehcho First Nations in its efforts to move negotiations forward. However, as well intended the offer is, accusations of a “take it or leave it approach “and terse name calling has taken an unfortunate turn rather than examining the full merits of the offer and contemplating a counter offer.
It is my belief that the negotiations process is about working out issues and arriving at a common point of mutual interests. Before abandoning the negotiations, all options should be explored in the best interests of moving negotiations forward.
I will have questions for the Minister of the Department of Aboriginal Affairs and Intergovernmental Relations later when I am given the opportunity.
Thank you, Mr. Nadli. The Member for Nahendeh, Mr. Menicoche.
Good afternoon, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to support the Dehcho First Nations’ aspirations for a settled claim and a fair and reasonable deal. The talks have indeed stalled and I hope not staled. There must be a way to sit down and find common ground once again.
Our government, Canada and the Dehcho First Nations has spent over 30 years of hard work on negotiations. It will be a shame not to evaluate the situation and to find a political solution.
Our Premier is an excellent negotiator and strong administrator. He will be remembered as the Premier that brought devolution home. I hope he can use that same strength to negotiate a land deal with the Dehcho First Nations, and I believe we are about 15 percent apart.
Mediation, while never popular, must be considered in this situation. Once again, we need the common ground, not a wedge that is driving us apart.
I will have questions for the Minister of Aboriginal Affairs during question period.
Thank you, Mr. Menicoche. The Member for Sahtu, Mr. Yakeleya.
