Specific Claims and Settlement Negotiations
Specific Claims are historical claims against Canada. Specific Claims relate to Canada’s unfulfilled Treaty-obligations, as well as and Canada’s duty to establish and to properly manage and administer reserve. Pursuing specific claims allows Indigenous Governments to address historic wrongs. We recognize that specific claims are a foundation, from a legal and practical perspective. We support Indigenous Governments throughout the specific claims process, by providing advice on the development of specific claims, negotiating the best possible settlements and using settlements to create a legacy for the Nation.
Negotiations
We support Indigenous Governments navigate complex negotiations. We help Indigenous Governments identify their negotiating objectives, engage with members, negotiate strategically and secure long-term benefits for the community. We provide advice for negotiating with industry, such through resource and impact benefits agreements. We assist in negotiating bilateral and trilateral agreements, such as Self-Government and Reconciliation Agreements.
Aboriginal Rights and Title
Consultation and Accommodation. We offer advice on how to ensure Indigenous Rights, including Title, are fully recognized and respected, including in a transboundary context. We support Indigenous Governments in protecting their Indigenous Rights and Title, such as by developing a Strength of Claim, ensuring meaningful engagement in consultation and accommodation processes, and through negotiations with government and industry.
Regulatory Processes
We provide advice on regulatory processes for single and multi-jurisdictional projects. We assist clients with engaging technical expertise and integrating traditional knowledge and land use information, to effectively address all potential aspects of a proposed development.
Developing Laws, Regulations and Codes
We support Indigenous Nations in achieving self-government, and governance systems that reflect their systems and cultural values. We provide support and advice for effective governance, including the development of Codes and laws and appropriate community engagement processes.
Additions to Reserve
We support Indigenous Nations in expanding their reserve base through the additions to reserve process. By understanding the complexity and opportunities of ATRs, we can work through this process in the most efficient and streamlined manner.
