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Aboriginal and Treaty Rights Information System

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Guidance and Tools for Departments / Agencies
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) provides information, research and technology, and policies and programs to achieve an environmentally sustainable agriculture, agri-food and agri-based products sector, a competitive agriculture, agri-food and agri-based products sector that proactively manages risk, and an innovative agriculture, agri-food and agri-based products sector.
Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency
We lead the federal review process for most major projects and coordinate the Government of Canada's Aboriginal consultation activities during the environmental assessment process of these projects.
This site offers a number of options to help you find information on potential and current environmental assessments of projects subject to the federal environmental assessment process. You can search by keyword, reference number, use the advanced search options, or browse a list of all projects in the Registry with several sorting options to help you find what you are looking for.
The Joint Review Panel for the Enbridge Northern Gateway Project is an independent body, mandated by the Minister of the Environment and the National Energy Board. The Panel will assess the environmental effects of the proposed project and review the application under both the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act and the National Energy Board Act.
Canadian Heritage
Canadian Heritage is responsible for national policies and programs that promote Canadian content, foster cultural participation, active citizenship and participation in Canada's civic life, and strengthen connections among Canadians.
Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency
Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor), delivers programs and services to promote economic development in Nunavut, the Northwest Territories and Yukon.
Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission regulates the use of nuclear energy and materials to protect the health, safety and security of Canadians and the environment; and to implement Canada's international commitments on the peaceful use of nuclear energy.
Department of Justice Canada
The Aboriginal Justice Strategy (AJS) enables Aboriginal communities to have increased involvement in the local administration of justice and, as such, provides timely and effective alternatives to mainstream justice processes in appropriate circumstances.
Environment Canada
Environment Canada's Canadian Wildlife Service handles wildlife matters that are the responsibility of the federal government, such as protection and management of migratory birds as well as nationally significant wildlife habitat, endangered species, control of international trade in endangered species, and research on wildlife issues of national importance.
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) and its Special Operating Agency, the Canadian Coast Guard, deliver programs and services that support sustainable use and development of Canada’s waterways and aquatic resources.
The Aboriginal Inland Habitat Program provided funding to Aboriginal groups in the inland provinces - Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec - to enhance participation in the collaborative long-term management of fish habitat.
The purpose of the Atlantic Integrated Commercial Fisheries Initiative (AICFI) is to assist in providing the 34 Mi'kmaq and Maliseet First Nations affected by the Marshall decision.
Aboriginal fisheries are an integral part of fisheries resource management in the Pacific Region. Through consultation, cooperative management and stewardship activities, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) regional staff and Aboriginal groups are working together to build strong, healthy relationships and sustainable fisheries.
Health Canada
Health Canada is the Federal department responsible for helping Canadians maintain and improve their health, while respecting individual choices and circumstances.
Human Resources and Skills Development Canada
HRSDC’s mission is to build a stronger and more competitive Canada, to support Canadians in making choices that help them live productive and rewarding lives, and to improve Canadians’ quality of life.
Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada
INAC is a Department that at its fundamental core, works in continuous partnership with several stakeholders and primarily with First Nation, Inuit, Métis and Northerners groups to support sound policy development and decision-making.
Over the past few decades, Indigenous issues have gained increased prominence on the world stage in areas such as human rights, gender equality, governance, cultural and linguistic diversity, environmental protection, international co-operation and more. Recognizing that indigenous peoples, no matter in which countries they live, often face similar challenges, Aboriginal people in Canada and the Government of Canada have worked proactively at the international level to advance the rights and interests of Indigenous peoples.
Supporting Aboriginal Economic development is an important part of what we do at Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada (AANDC). Increasing Aboriginal participation in the economy is one way we are working to improve the well-being and quality of life of Aboriginal people in Canada, ensuring Canada's future economic prosperity.
AANDC works in close partnership with provinces, and territories and Aboriginal organizations and communities on key Aboriginal and Northern issues such as education, economic development, child and family services, health, and housing.
The Government of Canada believes as more businesses and government services move online, it is imperative that the majority of Canada's Aboriginal communities have access to reliable high-speed internet. The federal government views broadband as a critical tool for Aboriginal people as broadband infrastructure can improve health and safety, increase social well-being and provide economic development opportunities and growth for Aboriginal communities.
CIRNAC works in partnership with Northern and Aboriginal governments and people to: govern the allocation of Crown lands to the private sector for oil and gas exploration; develop the regulatory environment; set and collect royalties; and approve benefit plans before development takes place in a given area.
AANDC is one of the federal government departments responsible for meeting the Government of Canada's obligations and commitments to First Nations, Inuit and Métis and for fulfilling the federal government's constitutional responsibilities in the North. Many of these responsibilities are defined by the more than 50 laws and regulations that AANDC administers. The Department's programs, services, policies and legislative initiatives help fulfill its responsibilities.
Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada (AANDC) and First Nations work together to increase First Nation involvement in management of their lands and natural resources.
"The Beaufort Regional Environmental Assessment (BREA) is a multi-stakeholder initiative to sponsor regional environmental and socio-economic research that will make historical information available and gather new information vital to the future management of oil and gas in the Beaufort Sea. The BREA will help ensure governments, Inuvialuit, and industry are better prepared for oil and gas exploration and development in the offshore by building upon the regional information base for the Beaufort Sea. "
Industry Canada
Industry Canada works with Canadians in all areas of the economy and in all parts of the country to improve conditions for investment, enhance Canada's innovation performance, increase Canada's share of global trade and build a fair, efficient and competitive marketplace.
Major Projects Management Office
The MPMO was established in 2007 to support the Government of Canada’s new approach to the regulatory review of major resource projects – an approach that ensures a more effective, accountable, transparent and timely review process.
National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces
National Defence plays an important role in the reconciliation agenda of the Government of Canada. The department has extensive and positive relations with Indigenous communities and Indigenous people across the country. In the spirit of reconciliation, National Defence is committed to expanding and deepening its relationships with Indigenous communities through engagement activities and other initiatives.

The Department encourages engagement and relationship building with Indigenous communities as a matter of good governance and fulfills its obligations to Indigenous peoples, reflected in laws, treaties and policies by:

• providing strategic advice and policy instruments to the Defence Team on Aboriginal and treaty rights, the legal duty to consult, treaty implementation and other relevant issues;
• supporting economic development opportunities for Indigenous communities within the scope of the Defence mandate;
• supporting Indigenous communities when they have an interest in acquiring surplus Defence property when possible and/or negotiating access agreements;
• disseminating and seeking views on new federal policies and guidelines, as they pertain to Indigenous affairs;
• providing a forum to gather information and share best practices on the implementation of Indigenous and treaty rights; and
• organizing training sessions and developing tools to raise awareness on Indigenous obligations and building departmental capacity.

Information : Aboriginal-Autochtones@forces.gc.ca
National Energy Board
The National Energy Board (NEB or Board) is an independent federal agency established in 1959 by the Parliament of Canada to regulate international and interprovincial aspects of the oil, gas and electric utility industries.
Natural Resources Canada
Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) seeks to enhance the responsible development and use of Canada’s natural resources and the competitiveness of Canada’s natural resources products. We are an established leader in science and technology in the fields of energy, forests, and minerals and metals and use our expertise in earth sciences to build and maintain an up-to-date knowledge base of our landmass.
Parks Canada
On behalf of the people of Canada, we protect and present nationally significant examples of Canada's natural and cultural heritage and foster Public understanding, appreciation and enjoyment in ways that ensure their ecological and commemorative integrity for present and future generations.
Public Services and Procurement Canada
The main body responsible for providing common services to government departments, boards and agencies of services to support their programs.
Statistics Canada
Statistics Canada, a member of the Industry Portfolio, produces statistics that help Canadians better understand their country—its population, resources, economy, society and culture.
Transport Canada
To serve the Public interest through the promotion of a safe and secure, efficient and environmentally responsible transportation system in Canada.
Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat
The Secretariat makes recommendations and provides advice to the Treasury Board on policies, directives, regulations, and program expenditure proposals with respect to the management of the government's resources.
Guidance and Tools for Federal Officials
Aboriginal Consultation and Accommodation
The advent and significance of historic treaties are rooted in the Royal Proclamation of 1763, issued by King George III. The Proclamation is still valid in Canada as it has never been overruled. It affirmed that First Nations people lived under the protection of the King and that they were not to be “molested or disturbed in the Possession of such Parts of Our Dominions and Territories as, not having been ceded to, or purchased by Us, are reserved to them, or any of them, as their Hunting Grounds....”. This statement recognized the existence of Aboriginal rights and title to vast areas within North America and beyond.

The decree also stipulated that the Indian Department would act as intermediary between the Crown and First Nations people where the granting and ceding of Indian land was concerned. As a result, the Royal Proclamation helped define the Crown–First Nations relationship, establish the treaty-making process and recognize First Nations rights in Canada.

Both the Charter of Rights and Freedoms (Section 25) and the Constitution Act, 1982 (Section 35) recognize and affirm Aboriginal and treaty rights. Various decisions of the Supreme Court of Canada have also helped to define Aboriginal and treaty rights in Canada.
Information on a National Scale
Aboriginal Programs and Support
The First Nations Statistical Institute (FNSI) is an autonomous, First Nations-led Crown Corporation. FNSI was established to increase the quality and accessibility of First Nations statistics to improve planning, decision-making, and investment.
Federal Programs and Support
Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC ), is a committee of experts that assesses and designates which wildlife species are in danger of disappearing from Canada.
Consulting With Canadians provides a single-window access to a list of consultations from selected government departments and agencies.
Non-Governmental Programs and Support
The Impact and Benefit Agreement (IBA) Research Network aims to: Connect IBA-focused researchers, consultants, IBA signatories, and Northern governmental/regulatory agencies; Identify and house all existing IBA-Focused Research, both formal and informal; Identify IBA Knowledge Gaps; and Work cooperatively to address these knowledge gaps.
The Early Canadiana Online collection of rare books, magazines and government publications has over 80,000 titles (3,500,000 pages) and is growing. The collection includes material published from the time of the first European settlers to the first four decades of the 20th Century.
Information on the Northwest Territories
Government of the Northwest Territories
The mandate of the Minister and Department is to protect, develop and promote the interests of the territorial government and the residents of the Northwest Territories in the negotiation and implementation of land, resources and self-government agreements that address Aboriginal rights in the Northwest Territories; participate in the political and constitutional development of the Northwest Territories; and ensure that mutually respectful intergovernmental relations between the territorial government and Aboriginal, provincial, territorial, national and international governments are developed and maintained.
Information on the Province of Alberta
Government of Alberta
The Ministry of Aboriginal Relations works with Aboriginal communities, the federal government, industry and other stakeholders to promote social and economic opportunities to enhance the quality of life of Aboriginal people in Alberta.
This is a link to the province of Alberta Indigenous Relations website of Treaty First Nations.
Government of Canada
Information on the Province of British Columbia
Government of British Columbia
The Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation negotiates treaties to create economic certainty over Crown land and resources and to improve the lives of First Nations.
The Treaty Commission is the independent body responsible for facilitating treaty negotiations among the governments of Canada, BC and First Nations in BC. The Treaty Commission and the six-stage treaty process were established in 1992 and designed to advance negotiations and facilitate fair and durable treaties. The Treaty Commission's primary role is to oversee the negotiation process between Canada, BC and First Nations to make sure that the parties are being effective and making progress in negotiations.
Information on the Province of Manitoba
Government of Manitoba
Indigenous and Municipal Relations influences policy and development of initiatives to create change in government and communities. It supports development in Aboriginal communities by finding or providing financial and technical resources.

The Agreements Management and Aboriginal Consultation (AMAC) branch of the Ministry is the primary coordinating body for Crown-Aboriginal consultations relating to major or complex projects across the province. The Interim Provincial Policy is attached below.

See the Agreements link below for a list of various agreements between the Government of Manitoba and First Nations.

See the Aboriginal Procurement Initiative link below which applies to all government departments and Special Operating Agencies who may be interested in including Aboriginal business and the entrepreneurial sector in their projects.
The "Treaties of Canada" is the report by Treaty Commissioner and Lieutenant-Governor Alexander Morris to the Earl of Dufferin about the negotiations of Treaties One to Seven with the Aboriginal groups in the areas known as Manitoba and the North-West Territories in 1880. This primary account contains the text of each treaty as well as a summary of the treaty negotitations. Speeches made by First Nation leaders and representatives of the Crown provide insight into the depth of understanding each of the parties possessed in entering these agreements, as well as their obligations to those they were representeding.
Information on the Province of New Brunswick
Aboriginal Organization
The Maritime Region's Aboriginal Peoples Representative Organization Councils, the Native Council of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick Aboriginal Peoples Council and Native Council of Prince Edward Island, are the organized voice for their communities of Mi'Kmaq, Malecite and Passamaquoddy Aboriginal Peoples continuing to reside on their traditional ancestral homeland territories in the Maritime Region.
Government of New Brunswick
To provide information and advice to the Minister responsible for Aboriginal Affairs and to departments on planning, policy development, communications, interdepartmental co-ordination and intergovernmental relations pertaining to Aboriginal matters; to act as a liason with Mi'kmaq and Maliseet communities and Aboriginal organizations; and to further cultural awareness in relation to Aboriginal people within the Public service and with the general Public.
Information on the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador
Government of Newfoundland and Labrador
Intergovernmental and Aboriginal Affairs Secretariat is a newly established secretariat responsible for coordinating the Provincial Government’s intergovernmental policies and strategies, as well as managing all government's activities related to Aboriginal affairs, including developing policy and programs, managing federal-provincial agreements, negotiating land claims and providing Public information.
Non-Governmental Organization
The Institute conducts and provides incisive, comprehensive, multidisciplinary and unbiased scientific research in Labrador and northeastern Québec ecosystems affected by the low-level flying program. It conducts research on the socio-economic effects of the military activities. The Institute offers scientifically supported recommendations to the Ministers of Environment and National Defence on the policy issues relating to the impacts of low-level flying.
Information on the Province of Nova Scotia
Aboriginal Organization
The Mi'kmaq • Nova Scotia • Canada Tripartite Forum was formed in 1997 as a partnership between the Nova Scotia Mi'kmaq, The Province of Nova Scotia and The Government of Canada, to strengthen relationships and to resolve issues of mutual concern affecting Mi'kmaw communities. It is a strong vehicle in addressing issues that affect the lives of all Mi’kmaq living in Nova Scotia.
The Mi'kmaq Rights Initiative is the negotiations between the Mi'kmaq of Nova Scotia, the Province of Nova Scotia and the Government of Canada. The Initiative was developed by the Mi'kmaq, for the Mi'kmaq. Through these negotiations, we hope to finally implement our rights from the treaties signed by our ancestors in the 1700's.
The Maritime Region's Aboriginal Peoples Representative Organization Councils, the Native Council of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick Aboriginal Peoples Council and Native Council of Prince Edward Island, are the organized voice for their communities of Mi'Kmaq, Malecite and Passamaquoddy Aboriginal Peoples continuing to reside on their traditional ancestral homeland territories in the Maritime Region.
Government of Canada
On September 15, 2010, a tripartite agreement was signed that establishes a consultation process with the Mi’kmaq of Nova Scotia. The Agreement establishes a clear and efficient means for Canada and Nova Scotia to consult on proposed actions or decisions that may adversely impact asserted or established Aboriginal and Treaty rights.
On October 31, 2012, Canada and Nova Scotia announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Aboriginal Consultation.
Government of Nova Scotia
Our Office is responsible for coordinating the Province's approach to Aboriginal issues. That includes discussions and negotiations with the Government of Canada and organizations representing Mi'kmaq communities.
On October 31, 2012, Canada and Nova Scotia announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Aboriginal Consultation.
Nova Scotia Community Counts provides a common platform for social, economic, environmental and cultural data from many sources that illustrate the unique nature of each community.
Information on the Province of Ontario
Government of Canada
On July 27, 2009, a tripartite agreement was signed that establishes a consultation process with the Algonquins of Ontario. Other communities represented by this protocol are: Shabot Obaadjiwan (Sharbot Lake), Greater Golden Lake, Antoine, Kijicho Manito (Bancroft), Ottawa, Mattawa/North Bay, Snimikobi (Ardoch), Bonnechere and Whitney.
Government of Ontario
In June 2007, the stand-alone Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs was created to replace the Ontario Secretariat of Aboriginal Affairs. This was a significant and symbolic step that reflected the importance of developing a stronger, broader partnership with Aboriginal people in Ontario.
This bi-lateral agreement establishes a consultation process between members of the Ontario Métis communities (represented by the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO)) and Canada. The Agreement sets a clear and efficient means for Canada and the MNO to consult on proposed actions or decisions that may adversely impact asserted or established Métis Aboriginal rights. The process is an optional but preferred process for Canada and the MNO. INAC will support the operations of the protocol through annual capacity funding to the MNO. Project-specific consultation contributions will be at the discretion of departments and agencies.

This agreement is also found attached to the MNO profile in ATRIS under the “Treaties and Agreements” tab.

The Province of Ontario funds MNO consultation separately through their New Relationship fund. The link is provided below.
Information on the Province of Prince Edward Island
Aboriginal Organization
The early Mik'maq established their ways of governing, and of managing their economy and their social relationships. Today, NCPEl dedicates itself to continue this tradition through our own form of self-government for the Métis, Non-status and status Indians living off-reserve on Prince Edward Island.
Government of Canada
On August 13, 2012, a tripartite agreement was signed that establishes a consultation process with the Mi’kmaq of Prince Edward Island. The Agreement establishes a clear and efficient means for Canada and Prince Edward Island to consult the Mi’kmaq on proposed actions or decisions that may adversely impact asserted or established Aboriginal and treaty rights.
Government of Prince Edward Island
In addition to offering a central point of contact for First Nations and Aboriginal organizations, the Aboriginal Affairs Secretariat provides a means by which to promote inter-ministerial communication and cooperation on governmental matters related to Aboriginal Affairs.
Information on the Province of Quebec
Government of Canada
On June 6, 2012, an interim tripartite agreement was signed that establishes a consultation process with the Mi’gmaq of Québec. The Agreement establishes a clear and efficient means for Canada and Québec to consult the Mi’gmaq on proposed actions or decisions that may adversely impact asserted or established Aboriginal and treaty rights.
Government of Quebec
The Secrétariat aux affaires autochtones is the primary agency responsible for ensuring communication and contact between Native peoples and the Gouvernement du Québec.
Non-Governmental Organization
The Institute conducts and provides incisive, comprehensive, multidisciplinary and unbiased scientific research in Labrador and northeastern Québec ecosystems affected by the low-level flying program. It conducts research on the socio-economic effects of the military activities. The Institute offers scientifically supported recommendations to the Ministers of Environment and National Defence on the policy issues relating to the impacts of low-level flying.
Information on the Province of Saskatchewan
Government of Saskatchewan
The Ministry of Government Relations works to improve the social and economic outcomes of First Nations and Métis people and northerners.

The government of Saskatchewan has set out a commitment to fulfilling its legal duty to consult and accommodate First Nation and Métis communities in their Consultation Policy Framework (CPF). Saskatchewan’s policy is for use by Government ministries, agencies, Crown corporations, First Nations, Métis and proponents. It includes the province’s Duty to Consult Policy, a section on the policy’s application to decisions affecting lands and resources, a policy context section and a section on interest-based engagement. The Consultation Policy Framework also provides direction to Government ministries, agencies and Crown corporations on how to establish operational procedures to consistently implement the consultation policy across Government.

In 2013, the Province released the “Proponent Handbook: Voluntary Engagement with First Nations and Métis Communities to Inform Government’s Duty to Consult Process” which is attached below.

More information on the Ministry of Government Relations duty to consult First Nations and Métis Communities can be found through the link below.
Information on the Territory of Nunavut
Government of Nunavut
Intergovernmental Affairs provides leadership and coordination for the management and development of strategies, policies and initiatives relevant to federal, provincial and territorial relations. It also manages relationships with aboriginal and circumpolar organizations.
Information on the Yukon Territory
Government of Yukon
First Nation Relations include the entire scope of relationships between Yukon First Nation Governments and the Government of Yukon. It includes matters related to the implementation of the land claim agreements, such as appointments of persons to Public boards such as the Yukon Fish and Wildlife Management Board or the Yukon Water Board, or the establishment of certain heritage sites or special management areas, or regional land use planning initiatives.
This link provides information on the Peel Watershed Land Use Plan, and associated maps, adopted by the Yukon government with regards to the public lands within the Peel Watershed region. Of particular interest is Map 4, entitled “First Nations Land Use and Heritage & Cultural Resources”.
Map Room / Resources
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Reference Guides
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