Yukon government staffs up to consult First Nations
The government of Canada’s northwestern Yukon territory has created a new position to advise its departments on consultation with First Nations.
The new job is designed to help government meet its legal obligations to consult and accommodate, under land claims agreements.
The Yukon government has been ordered by the territorial court to consult with the Ross River Dena before registering certain mineral claims on land that might affect the First Nation’s traditional rights.
Al Jones is with the Executive Council Office. He says the position was not created as a result of recent court cases.
“Of course potential litigation is a factor,” Jones says. “It’s a risk that we always have to take into account. Is this position created because of those risks? No, it’s basically to carry out the obligations that we have, and that we recognize that we have in an efficient manner.”
Jones says several officers have been advising as part of their regular duties.
This new position simply amalgamates those responsibilities into one job.
Jones says that shows the government’s commitment to the consultation process.
The position is currently being advertised.
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