Government of Canada Introduces Long Awaited Legislation to Strengthen Nunavut's Land Use Planning and Environmental Assessment

Ref. #2-3350

Ottawa, Ontario (May 12, 2010) –The Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, today introduced in the House of Commons Bill C-25, the Nunavut Planning and Project Assessment Act.

“The implementation of land claims is a priority for the Government of Canada,” said Minister Strahl. “This legislation is a clear demonstration of Canada's commitment to work with its partners, the Government of Nunavut, Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated and Inuit to fulfill its obligations under the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement. I want to thank our partners in the working group that helped develop this bill, which is so important to Nunavut's future.”

The purpose of this bill is to ensure clarity, consistency and legal certainty with respect to land use planning and environmental assessment processes in Nunavut. This bill represents the first commitment flowing from the Action Plan to Improve the North's Regulatory Regimes. Both the bill and the Action Plan emphasize strong, predictable frameworks and lay out a clear, consistent and reliable planning and impact assessment process for development initiatives.

This bill fulfills Canada's final legislative obligation under the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement of 1993.

"The implementation of this bill will create solid foundations for the future transfer of remaining land and resource management responsibilities from the federal government to the Government of Nunavut and will prepare the people of Nunavut to assume greater autonomy over their economy, land and future prosperity," said the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq MP for Nunavut.

“This legislation is a significant step toward improving the ability of Nunavut to manage its land and resource development. Consultation has been a joint effort and we look forward to seeing real results for the people of Nunavut.”

Maximizing the North's economic potential is tied to the implementation of effective, efficient processes to attract and sustain development. This legislation contains provisions for timelines and a comprehensive enforcement regime for land use planning and environmental assessment.

It will further advance objectives within the Northern Strategy, particularly the promotion of economic development and protection of environmental heritage in the North by providing clear parameters for governments and industry.

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