CREATING SELF-RELIANT COMMUNITIES – FIRST NATIONS OIL AND GAS AND MONEYS MANAGEMENT ACT RECEIVES ROYAL ASSENT

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OTTAWA, ONTARIO (November 28, 2005) - The First Nations Oil and Gas and Moneys Management Act received Royal Assent last Friday. This innovative and First Nation-led legislation will enable First Nations to assume control over the management of their oil and gas resources and moneys – a key step in building stronger and more self-reliant communities.

Developed in partnership by the Government of Canada and the White Bear First Nations (Saskatchewan), Blood Tribe and Siksika First Nation (Alberta), the First Nations Oil and Gas and Moneys Management Act creates a comprehensive regime that will enable participating First Nations to take full control of oil and gas development on their reserve lands. Direct control over these resources will mean improved and more timely access to economic development opportunities. The Act also enables participating First Nations to assume control over their band moneys held in the Consolidated Revenue Fund.

"We are very pleased that our ten years of experience in the pilot programme have resulted in the adoption of FNOGMMA today, "said Chief Charlie Weaselhead of the Blood Tribe.

Chief Allan Maxie of the White Bear First Nations added,"We are satisfied that FNOGMMA confirms our control over our resources and monies as well as our right to make laws in these areas."

"The adoption of this Act will provide more opportunities for our members to benefit very directly from the oil and gas on our lands," said Chief Strater Crowfoot of the Siksika First Nation. “This is a day that we have been working towards for many years."

“This legislation will enable timely resource development and investment choices. It will provide the tools that First Nations require to create jobs and economies that will lead to stronger and more self-reliant communities,” said Minister Scott. “Yet another First Nation driven initiative has become law, providing another concrete illustration of the new spirit of respect and partnership that characterizes relations between the governments of Canada and of First Nations.”

The optional nature of this legislation ensures communities have the flexibility to choose whether or not they want to take advantage of its provisions. This legislation is an example of the Government of Canada’s commitment to improve access to resources and economic development opportunities for First Nations. It is also a tangible example of the government’s willingness to work in partnership with First Nations, Inuit and Métis in an effort to close the gap in the quality of life that now exists between Aboriginal peoples and other Canadians.

 

For further information, please contact:

Campbell Morrison, Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development
(819) 997-0002

Leonard Good Eagle,
Office of the Proponent First Nations Steering Committee
(403) 901-4163 or (403) 734-2097