Policy Areas
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Resource Revenue SharingResource Revenue Sharing Mandate Resolution No. 9/2007 is the most recent resolution specific to resource revenue sharing. The resolution seeks a First Nations economic framework that supports and strengthens First Nation access to, and involvement in, processes supporting resource revenue sharing and designing resource revenue options. The resolution also supports establishing stronger relationships with federal departments, agencies and/or provinces, and their officials to support related activity and framework development. Key Issues and Activities
As part of the preliminary activity, the AFN Economic Partnerships Secretariat has proposed working with resource-based sectors and associations to promote First Nation involvement in key resources areas, including the Forest Products Association of Canada (FPAC), the Mining Association of Canada and the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada. Additionally, the AFN has worked with Mining Human Resources Sector Council on increasing employment information for First Nations communities. The AFN is also working with FPAC to establish a sector council, which will include a First Nation representative on the board. Regional Chief Lawrence Joseph made a presentation to the Canadian Aboriginal Mining Association conference in November, focusing on Aboriginal and Treaty rights, the need for participation in employment, and economic activity. The event had its highest turn out ever with delegates from industry, First Nation communities and government. The AFN has met with Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) officials with regard to mining industry materials, the development of a national map that outlines work relationships and engagement between the mining industry and First Nations. Similarly, the AFN has met with First Nation Forest Program officials to be informed of the status and priorities of their program. The AFN Economic Partnerships Secretariat informed departmental officials of key issues including the settlement of First Nation land claims, creating an environment of certainty, and increased support for the First Nation workforce. The AFN has submitted a funding proposal to NRCan for the Inter-Nation Trade and Economic Summit to be held March 9-11, 2009. The department will coordinate with Indian and Northern Affairs Canada on the possibility of a contribution. As part of policy research, the AFN Economic Partnerships Secretariat and the AFN Policy Unit are working collaboratively on establishing a research table. The research table will invite a composition of respected academics and economists. The concept is driven by an effort to follow up on information to support the First Nation Economic Blue Print, specifically drafting a paper on the “State of the First Nation Economy”. In addition, the table will consider initiatives to help make First Nation Poverty history. Anticipated Achievements by March 31, 2009
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