Working Together with First Nations & Other Aboriginal People

Cultural, spiritual, and ecological values are important to First Nations and other Aboriginal people, and will be considered when identifying and designating protected areas. As part of the Protected Areas Initiative’s land evaluation process, we communicate with First Nations and other Aboriginal communities who may be affected by the establishment of a protected area.

In 1998, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on the establishment and management of new protected areas was signed with Manitoba First Nations organizations. The MOU required consultation with affected First Nations communities before new protected areas are established and outlines the principles that guide the consultation process. Although the MOU has concluded, Manitoba continues to be committed to working with First Nations and other Aboriginal people on the establishment of new protected areas.

The Government of Manitoba is working with First Nations and other Aboriginal people to ensure that areas designated as protected areas will not infringe upon any existing Aboriginal or Treaty rights, or the exercise of those rights, of First Nations and other Aboriginal people. The right of First Nations and other Aboriginal people to access protected areas for hunting, trapping, fishing, and other traditional pursuits will be respected. Where the feature being protected could be placed at risk by traditional use, the Government of Manitoba will consult in a meaningful way and attempt in good faith to substantially address the concerns of First Nations and other Aboriginal people about the potential adverse effects of the government action or decision on the exercise of Treaty or Aboriginal rights.