Chief Robert Louie and Chief Austin Bear at the First Nations Land Management and Economic Development Conference. Photo by Joel Willick.
First Nations in Saskatchewan are being invited to explore land governance and economic development on First Nations land at a conference in Saskatoon.
Hundreds of people gathered at the First Nations National Land Management and Economic Development Conference on Wednesday exploring the successes and challenges that come with the Framework Agreement on First Nations Land Management.
The agreement allows First Nations to opt out of 32 sections of the Indian Act relating to land management, giving them the ability to develop their own laws about land use.
Several First Nations across the country have signed onto the agreement.
“This conference will aim to highlight the incredible opportunities now available to First Nations who, through the agreement, have regained governance over their lands and resources,” said Chief Robert Louie.
Chief Louie, of Westbank First Nation in B.C., is the Chair of the Lands Advisory Board the organizing body for the conference.
“Delegates at this conference will hear from different First Nations who have advanced themselves dramatically in economic development at at the social level; with unemployment being reduced, more jobs and hope for the youth,” he said.
The conference will include speakers from across Canada who will discuss ideas around alternative and renewable energy, finance, property development and community development.
Members of several different First Nations are in attendance including those who have singed onto the agreement as well as those who are undecided.
“I think everyone here will have a first hand experience on what the process is, what obstacles and concerns there are and what are the benefits,” said Muskoday First Nation Chief Austin Bear who Chairs the Lands Advisory Boards Resource Centre.
“I think those interested First Nations considering this option may find some support and answers as to why we believe the framework agreement is more beneficial to First Nations than the Indian Act,” he said.
The conference runs Wednesday and Thursday between Saskatoon and Whitecap Dakota First Nation.