August 14, 2001

To facilitate the selection and acquisition of lands within municipal boundaries under the treaty land entitlement process, Aboriginal and Northern Affairs Minister Eric Robinson has released a Reference Manual for Municipal Development and Services Agreements.

"Municipalities and First Nations recognize the benefits of working together to facilitate the treaty land entitlement (TLE) process," said Robinson. "To support this process, both municipalities and First Nations have expressed the need for further information on the process for establishing these agreements. This reference manual will provide valuable information as they negotiate agreements."

In preparation of the reference manual, the Department of Aboriginal and Northern Affairs collaborated with the departments of Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice and consulted with the Association of Manitoba Municipalities and the Treaty Land Entitlement Committee.

Canada, Manitoba and the TLE Committee representing 19 First Nations signed the TLE Framework Agreement in 1997. The agreement addresses outstanding land requirements from the treaties.

"Intergovernmental Affairs is pleased to support TLE by assisting municipalities with their role in the process," said Jean Friesen, minister of intergovernmental affairs. "This assistance should help with the selection and acquisition of lands within municipal boundaries."

Robinson noted that, under the terms of the TLE Framework Agreement, the role of the provincial government is to support and provide information to facilitate the process.

"The reference manual is an important part of our department’s contribution as we help create an environment of co-operation and partnership between Manitoba’s municipalities and First Nations communities," said Robinson. "The treaty land entitlement initiative has the potential to lead to partnerships to foster economic opportunities for communities. Supporting this effort will assist communities in taking advantage of the many opportunities presented under treaty land entitlement."

Copies of the manual and information regarding treaty land entitlement can be obtained by calling the Department of Aboriginal and Northern Affairs at 204-945-2511. Information on municipal services agreements can also be found by contacting the Department of Intergovernmental Affairs at 204-945-4864.

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