News Release

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Grand River Agreement with First Nations Renewed

New Spirit of Respect and Cooperation Will Mean Stronger Aboriginal Communities

CAMBRIDGE – The McGuinty government is reinforcing a commitment to strengthen Aboriginal communities by renewing the Grand River Notification Agreement, Minister Responsible for Native Affairs Michael Bryant said today.

"This agreement is a model for improving information sharing between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities, said Bryant. "It will make it easier for communities in the southern portion of the Grand River watershed to communicate and exchange information, allowing for better planning."

Under the agreement, the parties must inform each other of a number of proposed activities such as matters relating to provincial highway corridors, adoption or amendment to an official plan and/or zoning bylaw, that could have an impact on the local environment. Those parties notified then have the opportunity to consider the potential impact of any activity and whether to participate in a formal consultation or review process. The agreement does not address land claims and is not legally binding.

"This is a continuation of a process that has proven to be a successful method of providing for consultation opportunities with our First Nations neighbours," said Haldimand County Mayor Marie Trainer.

The agreement, which was first signed in 1996, was extended for another five years, and includes the federal and provincial governments, the Counties of Brant and Haldimand, the City of Brantford, the Six Nations of the Grand River, the Mississauga of the New Credit, and the Grand River Conservation Authority.

"This agreement builds on our government's commitment to foster strong Aboriginal communities," said Bryant. "We look forward to working co-operatively with the First Nations in the future."

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Contacts:

Sandra D'Ambrosio
Minister's Office
416-326-1000