Canada - First Nations work plan to strengthen relationships
DATE: June 8th, 2011
SUBJECT: Canada - First Nations work plan to strengthen relationships
PURPOSE
Further to discussion on the National Executive conference call June 7th, 2011, this note provides an update on advancements regarding a ‘work plan’ between AFN and Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern development to strengthen the relationship.
BACKGROUND
- Consistent with several resolutions most importantly 2007/ 6 on the recognition and implementation of First Nation governments, advancing a reconciliation work plan following the Apology, as well as more recently resolution 2010/ 48 calling for immediate joint work to advance the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) on key issues, Chiefs have consistently mandated effort to advance a work plan of shared priorities and interests with the Government of Canada.
- Building on the Apology and the UNDRIP, Canada has now signaled a commitment to work with First Nations to address key priorities.
- AFN generally has a work plan with INAC every year but this is a higher-level commitment to work together in partnership on some key areas based on some key principles. These principles include the recognition and affirmation of Aboriginal and Treaty rights and support to strengthen communities recognizing our languages and cultures.
- AFN also has a work plan with the Minister of Health and will advocate for similar work plans consistent with AFN mandate from Chiefs in Assembly.
- The Work Plan covers:
- Education
- Strong First Nation governments with real authority and responsibility (accountability, transparency, capacity and good governance)
- Economic development
- Negotiation and implementation
ASSURANCES
- The work plan explicitly states that nothing in this plan will affect any new or existing initiatives at the regional or local level.
- The AFN National Office works to facilitate dialogue, engagement and change through First Nations and regionally-driven work. This plan helps identify areas of mutual interest but there is still space to give shape and detail to the plan.
- Every effort will require full engagement and ultimately decision by First Nations to advance or accept proposals pursuant to this work plan.
- This is not the sum total of our agenda – AFN and First Nations will continue to pursue other priorities as required (this is an agreement to work together on some key mutual priorities).
NEXT STEPS:
There will be a first opportunity at the upcoming National Executive meeting June 11 and 12 to elaborate First Nations perspectives and approaches.
At the upcoming Annual General Assembly, there will be the opportunity to discuss the elements of the work plan in full including engagement of all First Nations and ensuring a First Nations directed approach consistent with AFN mandate and direction.
