The findings have been distilled in the Project Report, along with a number of Fact
Sheets. These are designed to provide users in First Nations with insights into the key
components of consultation protocols that could be adopted by First Nation’s to ensure
that the Crown’s duty to consult and accommodate becomes a source of leverage and
strength for First Nation communities.
2.
KEY FINDINGS
2.1
CONSULTATION AND FIRST NATIONS
2.1.1
Importance of Consultation for First Nations
Consultation is a critical issue for First Nations. This reflects the following
considerations:
Consultation signals respect for Aboriginal rights.
Consultation provides the opportunity for Aboriginal Peoples to protect their
rights.
Consultation gives the opportunity for First Nations to exercise their jurisdiction
over, and their social and economic interest in, lands and natural resources.
Engaging in consultation can result in a longer term commitment to build a
sustainable relationship and reconcile the ongoing issues originating from the past.
Consultation could result in increased involvement by the First Nation in revenue
sharing and land and resource management within its territory as a result of
accommodation and mitigation decisions.
Consultation activities can create mutually beneficial relationships with
governments and third parties
Consultation will provide an increased role for the community to participate in
decision-making.
At the same time, consultation results in important benefits both for the Crown and Third
parties, such as corporations. These factors are set out in the following exhibit.