August 28, 2017
As public engagement sessions kick off for a new Mineral Resources Act, engagement and consultation are top-of-mind for those following the development of this legislation and interested in mining and mineral exploration in the Northwest Territories.
While engagement and consultation may appear to be two words that refer to the same thing, they are, in the government’s context, two very distinct and important processes.
What is Public Engagement?
Public Engagement is the process we are using to collect thoughts, opinions, and ideas from all NWT residents, governments, industry representatives and stakeholders.
The information collected from our public engagement process will be analyzed and compiled to inform and guide the development and drafting of the new Act. The GNWT Is currently using several tools to complete its pubic engagement:
- Visits to seven communities across the NWT\
- Online with discussion forums, comment submissions, and a survey at our engagement portal
- Telephone
What is Consultation?
In the Northwest Territories, Consultation refers to mandatory discussions, required under Section 35 of the Constitution Act, which must take place with Indigenous governments on any government initiative that has the potential to impact Aboriginal or Treaty rights.
In the context of this project, Consultation will take place once the new Act has been drafted but before it is introduced in the Legislative Assembly. This will ensure the rights of Indigenous NWT residents have been considered and addressed in the finished product.
In addition to “public engagements”, the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) will complete a process of “consultation” with the NWT’s Indigenous governments before introducing the new Mineral Resources Act.
Do you have thoughts on mining and mineral exploration? Now is your chance to Have Your Say on the NWT’s first ever homegrown mineral legislation.
Find out how you can contribute to the future of responsible mineral development in the NWT at our online engagement portal.
For more information
Mike Westwick
Communications Officer
Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment
Government of the Northwest Territories
Mike_Westwick@gov.nt.ca
1-867-767-9202 ext. 63039