Manitoba has released a protocol to define how Crown-Indigenous consultations will occur during the phases of mineral development.
The protocol has been released after extensive engagement between the province, First Nations leadership, and industry representatives.
The protocol creates certainty in order to advance projects in a timely way and ensure First Nations can be actively involved in all phases of development projects within their traditional territories.
The protocol includes a process guide and matrix for Crown-Indigenous consultation. The province will encourage its use in discussions with First Nations as a way to facilitate a mutually agreed-to consultation process for all phases of the mineral development cycle, from grassroots exploration to mine development.
Growth, Enterprise and Trade Minister Blaine Pedersen confirmed $500,000 in funding has been set aside to support First Nations in the development and implementation of protocol agreements. The funding will enable the establishment of shared mineral management boards, with a focus on traditional land-use planning in areas with a high volume of active mineral interests and demonstrated mineral potential. It will help to enhance First Nations’ knowledge and understanding of the mining cycle, and the potential economic growth opportunities arising from exploration and development.
A key goal is ensuring First Nations can participate effectively in project-specific regulatory processes, including the review of proposed mineral dispositions, permits and licence applications.
