Ontario and Anishinabek Nation Renew Commitments on Natural Resource Management
Press Release
March 21, 2016
Ontario Strengthens Relationship with Anishinabek Nation
The Anishinabek Nation and Ontario are continuing to work together to strengthen collaboration on natural resource management.
Today at a meeting, Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry Bill Mauro and Anishinabek Grand Council Chief Patrick Madahbee renewed a Letter of Commitment and signed the sixth multi-year Memorandum of Understanding regarding natural resources management issues including education, and enhanced elder and youth involvement.
These agreements signify Ontario’s continuing support of the long-standing and productive relationship with the Anishinabek Nation, largely through the Anishinabek Ontario Resource Management Council.
The Anishinabek Ontario Resource Management Council provides opportunities for increased information sharing and understanding between the Anishinabek Nation and the government with respect to cultures, governance and natural resources such as fish, wildlife and forestry.
The renewal of these agreements is one of many steps on Ontario’s journey of healing and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. It reflects the government’s commitment to work with Indigenous partners, creating a better future for everyone in the province.
- The Anishinabek Nation incorporated the Union of Ontario Indians as its secretariat in 1949.
- The Union of Ontario Indians is a political advocate for 39 member communities across Ontario, representing approximately 55,000 people. The Union of Ontario Indians is the oldest political organization in Ontario and can trace its roots back to the Confederacy of Three Fires, which existed long before European contact.
“I was pleased to attend the Anishinabek Ontario Resource Management Council Leadership Forum today to reaffirm the importance of Ontario’s relationship with the Anishnabek Nation. I look forward to our continuing work together.”
“The Anishinabek Ontario Resource Management Council is an effective resource to present Anishinabek First Nation resource management priorities and issues to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry. The Council provides a forum to discuss and develop successful solutions.”
“Working collaboratively with Indigenous partners is the path toward reconciliation. Renewing the Anishinnabek Ontario Resource Council provides an excellent forum to reach solutions on regional resource management issues and move forward together.”
David Zimmer
Minister of Aboriginal Affairs
Media Contacts
Media calls only: Emily Kirk
Minister’s Office
416-314-2206
Media calls only: Media Desk
Communications Branch
416-314-2106
Marci Becking
Union of Ontario Indians
705-497-9127 Ext. 2290
IBF5
