Message from the Minister
and Accountability Statement

I am pleased to deliver the Service Plan for the Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation. This plan gives me the opportunity to describe the practical and measurable actions the Ministry will undertake over the next three fiscal years to further the New Relationship with First Nations, Métis and Aboriginal organizations. This New Relationship will continue as it began — based on principles of mutual trust, respect and recognition of Aboriginal rights and title.

The Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation will continue its advisory role in support of ministries across government on Aboriginal-related initiatives. These range from lands and resource matters for First Nations to programs for Aboriginal and Métis people in urban centres. Our goal is to bridge the social and economic gaps between Aboriginal people and other British Columbians by the year 2015.

We remain committed to treaty negotiations as a full and formal expression of reconciliation. Treaties and other agreements stimulate investment, create jobs and expand economies in communities throughout British Columbia. In conjunction with other ministries across government, the Ministry will support the negotiation of agreements to materially improve the lives of First Nations and to achieve greater clarity over Crown lands and resources.

The Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation 2007/08 – 2009/10 Service Plan was prepared under my direction in accordance with the Budget Transparency and Accountability Act. I am accountable for the basis on which the plan has been prepared. All material fiscal assumptions and policy decisions as of February 15, 2007 have been considered in preparing this plan, and I am accountable for achieving the specific objectives in it.

Honourable Michael de Jong
Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation

February 15, 2007