Ontario Asks Canada To Reconsider UN Declaration On The Rights Of Indigenous Peoples
December 22, 2009 11:45 AM
As part of Ontario's continued efforts to enhance cooperation, and to build strong relationships with Aboriginal people based on mutual respect, Premier Dalton McGuinty has asked the Government of Canada to reconsider its position on the United Nations' Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
Ontario supports a review of Canada's position on the Declaration as a means to demonstrate its commitment to improving the lives of Aboriginal people throughout Canada. Reconsideration of the Declaration would demonstrate Canada's willingness to foster an open dialogue to improve the lives of Aboriginal peoples.
Quick Facts
- Ontario is involving Aboriginal people in issues that affect their future. The modernization of the Mining Act includes explicit recognition of Aboriginal and treaty rights. This is the first time that this has been recognized in any provincial or territorial mining legislation.
- Canada is the only non-signatory to the Declaration that has not undertaken a review of its stance. Australia reversed its position and endorsed the Declaration earlier this year.
- Ontario's request is that the federal government undertake a conscientious review of Canada's position on the Declaration, within the context of Canada's constitutional and treaty framework and related jurisprudence.
Learn More
- About the United Nations' Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples adopted by the General Assembly 13 September 2007
- About the Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs
- About Canada's position on the United Nations' Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples
Contacts
- Kelly Baker
Minister's Office
(416) 314-6750
Kelly.Baker@ontario.ca - Phyllis Bennett
Media Contact
(416) 326-6306
Phyllis.Bennett@ontario.ca
Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs
ontario.ca/aboriginal