21 Additional First Nations welcomed as Signatories to the Framework Agreement

(April 21, 2017)

On behalf of the Lands Advisory Board, and the Framework Agreement Signatory First Nations, and with the full support of Canada, we are delighted to welcome the following 21 new signatory nations to the Framework Agreement. This brings the total number of Framework Agreement Signatory First Nations to 148.

This year the Framework Agreement on First Nation Land Management (Framework Agreement) celebrates 21 years of land governance authority, during which time it has helped communities across the country exercise their inherent rights over their reserve lands and resources. Under the Framework Agreement and the First Nations Land Management Act, 33 sections of the Indian Act no longer apply to those communities who ratify their community land codes enabling these communities to move ahead in their goals of self‐governance and self‐sufficiency beyond the boundaries of the Indian Act.

The Lands Advisory Board and the First Nations Land Management Resource Centre, have worked diligently to provide support to the Framework Agreement signatories, and to ensure that all First Nations are offered the opportunity to pursue this initiative, if they so desire. We are thankful to Canada, and to Minister Bennet and her staff, for the cooperation, partnership and continued support of First Nations across Canada in their pursuit to become signatories to the Framework Agreement.

We look forward to working with each of them as they continue their journey towards self‐ determination.

“It is with great pride that we announce the addition of these 21 First Nations as signatories to the Framework Agreement. Under the Framework Agreement First Nations are recognized as the authority over their lands and resources and as such, land management activities are being completed at the speed of business. We are forging a new path of prosperity for our communities, and it is wonderful to welcome these 21 additional First Nations on our journey”

– Robert Louie

Chair, First Nations Land Advisory Board

“The Framework Agreement strengthens Aboriginal culture, renews our role as stewards of the land, promotes self‐sufficiency and community pride, and offers protection for our traditional values. It is a great day when we can welcome additional First Nations to the Framework Agreement, so that they too can experience the tremendous benefit it affords to our everyday lives. My thanks to Canada, and to Minister Bennet, for the continued support of this important, First Nation led initiative.”

– Chief Austin Bear

First Nations Land Management Resource Centre Inc.

“Congratulations to the 21 new signatory Nations to the Framework Agreement. Today marks an important step towards your journey to self‐determination. We will continue to work in full partnership with all the signatories as you assume greater control over reserve lands and resources ‐ leading to a brighter, more prosperous future for all.”

–The Honourable Carolyn Bennett

Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs

For further information on this historic departure from the Indian Act, please contact:

First Nation Lands Management Resource Centre Communications Department

985‐5711 www.labrc.com

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