March 21, 2006
Backgrounder
NORTHERN TABLE
David Ramsay, Minister Responsible for Aboriginal Affairs and Stan Beardy, Grand Chief of Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN), which represents 49 Chiefs from Treaties 9 and 5, launched the new political-level Northern Table in Thunder Bay on March 21, 2006. Over time, other First Nations communities will be included.
The Ontario government and NAN are seeking to develop a constructive and co-operative approach to the unique challenges experienced by northern First Nations in achieving prosperity.
More than half of the First Nations in Ontario are located in the northern part of the province. Many are remote with fly-in access only. These communities face socio-economic conditions that present unique challenges to achieving prosperity and well-being.
First Nations peoples in the North have young, fast-growing populations. More than 45 per cent of First Nations residents in the north are under the age of 25. In the most northerly areas, more than 50 per cent are under the age of 16. This younger generation is ready to engage in economic opportunities and is looking to share in the benefits of resource development to build their future.
Northern First Nations leaders asked Ontario to develop a political-level forum dedicated to addressing unique northern challenges and opportunities as part of Ontario's New Approach to Aboriginal Affairs. The resulting Northern Table is a joint First Nations-Ontario process that is expected to create measurable results.
The new Northern Table is part of Ontario's overall plan to involve First Nations in developing northern prosperity. The McGuinty government's New Approach to Aboriginal Affairs encourages joint initiatives in which Aboriginal peoples have greater involvement in matters that affect their communities. The Northern Table is one of a number of initiatives created under the New Approach to promote greater involvement of Aboriginal leaders and communities in decisions that affect their lives.
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Contacts:
Merike Nurming
Communications Branch
416-326-4079
Anne-Marie Flanagan
Minister Ramsay’s Office
416-327-0654
Disponible en français
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