Negotiations

A respectful and collaborative approach to negotiations with First Nations can advance reconciliation and help build stronger relationship with Indigenous peoples.  They allow the groups to: 

• explore mutual interests

• address challenges

• identify opportunities in a respectful, collaborative, and interest-based manner 

Negotiated agreements can help make relationships better, clarify items of interest in a balanced way, and advance and recognize First Nations' rights as stated in the Canadian Constitution. They can also be a way to promote economic growth and social and cultural opportunities for both current and future generations.  

Negotiations often involve certain joint commitment principles, such as:   

• Proceeding without prejudice 

• Confidential 

• In good faith 

• Open, transparent, candid 

• Interest-based 

The aim of these commitments is to create an atmosphere of trust and respect between the parties during negotiations.

Negotiations can address a range of topics. Some examples include: 

• Justice, policing and community safety

• Archaeology and the return of indigenous artifacts

• Setting up indigenous protected conservation areas

• Child and family services

• Housing and other infrastructure

• Economic development opportunities

• Harvesting deer or moose

• Managing natural resources 

• Gaming initiatives

• Education

• And more