The head of Canada’s Assembly of First Nations (AFN) said that large companies could develop in Aboriginal areas if they forged good links with the community.
Noting that companies could develop in Aboriginal areas, Perry Bellegarde said that as long as they “respect inherent rights, treaty rights and indigenous peoples’ involvement, there could be ways to work through some of those concerns.”
“If you start involving indigenous people in the development and design of any major operation from start to finish that’s the what to do. If that positive relationship is built first, things could be done easier.”
Mr Bellegarde welcomed Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus positive inclusive tone, adding,
“We’re totally optimistic and hopeful because the prime minister talked about building a new relationship.”
Noting that companies could develop in Aboriginal areas, Perry Bellegarde said that as long as they “respect inherent rights, treaty rights and indigenous peoples’ involvement, there could be ways to work through some of those concerns.”
“If you start involving indigenous people in the development and design of any major operation from start to finish that’s the what to do. If that positive relationship is built first, things could be done easier.”
Mr Bellegarde welcomed Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus positive inclusive tone, adding,
“We’re totally optimistic and hopeful because the prime minister talked about building a new relationship.”