News Release

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SIOUX LOOKOUT - The McGuinty government is pleased to launch discussions on new draft Aboriginal Consultation Guidelines at the annual All Chiefs Conference at Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug (KI) First Nation today.

"Today’s meeting with First Nations leaders marks the beginning of a substantive engagement process for Ontario to begin receiving input on Ontario’s new draft Consultation Guidelines," said David Ramsay, Minister Responsible for Aboriginal Affairs. "These guidelines will help bring clarity to the process for consultation with Aboriginal peoples."

The draft Guidelines were distributed to the Aboriginal community and non-Aboriginal stakeholders on June 20, 2006. Ontario ’s draft Guidelines will assist provincial ministries in their consultations with Aboriginal peoples on matters related to constitutionally protected Aboriginal rights and treaty rights.

"Our government is depending on the input and advice of Aboriginal communities to make these draft guidelines successful," said Ramsay. "Together with First Nations leaders we are committed to strengthening our relationships."

Last year, the McGuinty government launched its New Approach to Aboriginal Affairs to build relationships with the Aboriginal peoples in Ontario and help strengthen their communities. As a result, a new relationship based on co-operation and mutual respect is evolving between the Ontario government and Aboriginal communities and organizations. The development of draft consultation guidelines was a primary commitment made by the province under its New Approach. The draft Aboriginal Consultation Guidelines are available on-line at http://www.aboriginalaffairs.osaa.gov.on.ca.

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Contacts:

Anne-Marie Flanagan
Press Secretary to Minister Ramsay
(416) 327-0654

Disponible en français