News Releases

News Release - Manitoba

September 14, 2016

Premier Speaks to Annual General Assembly of Southern Chiefs' Organization



Premier Brian Pallister emphasized the commitment of Manitoba’s new government to building a productive relationship with the province’s Indigenous leaders and community members based on a foundation of mutual respect and sustained trust today at a gathering of Indigenous leaders at the Annual General Assembly of the Southern Chiefs Organization (SCO).

The assembly took place over the last two days at Brokenhead First Nation. 

“Our government recognizes the path to our province’s future prosperity must include the active participation of our large and growing Indigenous population,” said Pallister.  “We are committed to fulfilling our duty to consult with First Nations on the many economic and social development opportunities where we have an opportunity to collaborate and partner.” 

The premier noted the lengthy process associated with treaty land entitlements (TLE) and committed to initiating discussions with the federal government and Manitoba First Nations to facilitate a more speedy resolution of TLE claimsso they are able to move forward with theirurban economic development zones in communities throughout Manitoba. 

Pallister was welcomed by SCO Grand Chief Terrance Nelson on behalf of the 32 First Nations represented by the organization in southern Manitoba. 

“It was an honour to have Premier Brian Pallister attend the Southern Chiefs Organization, Chiefs-in-Summit today,” said Nelson.  “As Southern First Nations work towards building an economic path forward, we welcome the premier’s willingness for open dialogue and his government’s commitment to build partnerships based on respect and common ground.” 

The premier also expressed the government’s support for further dialogue with Indigenous leaders throughout Manitoba, including the Southern Chiefs, with the goal of establishing a framework for resource sharing which would ensure opportunities for economic development associated with exploration of Manitoba’s vast natural resources are pursued in a manner that would allow for the benefit of First Nations. 

“Our government is extremely pleased with the opportunities that Manitoba chiefs have presented for us to meet and discuss opportunities for future partnerships,” said Pallister.  “We are committed to a continued dialogue and look forward to future meetings with community leaders from across Manitoba.”

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