A deal signed this week between Cree people in Quebec and the Quebec government is already being called groundbreaking by one outside analyst.
The agreement in question involves residents of northern Quebec who live in the municipality of James Bay.
For years, the Cree there have fought for a larger say in the decision-making that happens in their area — particularly when it comes to development of natural resources.
This week, Premier Jean Charest agreed to replace the municipal government of James Bay with a new government composed of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal residents.
The new arrangement will allow First Nations to be equally represented in the government with an equal share of votes.
This will give them a larger say in the projects that are allowed to proceed on their territory.
Bill Gallagher is a Calgary-based lawyer and author who has studied resource development on First Nations land.
Gallagher says, for a long time, Quebec has been ahead of the curve when it comes to dealing with First Nations — and this week’s deal is further evidence of that:
“The transformation that’s happened here is the First Nations in the equation are no longer viewed as rivals — they’re viewed as partners. And now, this percolates through the land claim and right through to regional government.”
Gallagher says Charest will also be able to use his cooperation with the Quebec Cree as evidence his province is among the world’s leaders when it comes to providing responsible, green energy.
He also says the agreement is something other provinces should be looking at.