ST. JOHN’S, NL – The Newfoundland and Labrador Environmental Industry Association (NEIA) held a roundtable yesterday on best practices in consultation and engagement with aboriginal groups as it relates to project and resource development.
“The environmental sector is regularly involved in business activities which require or benefit from the involvement of aboriginal groups throughout the province,” said Ted Lomond, Executive Director of NEIA. “Whether it be in environmental assessment, permitting, or mega-project planning and implementation, the engagement process is vital to achieving successful outcomes.”
The event featured an overview of the province’s new aboriginal consultation policy and practical considerations for industry undertaking projects in Newfoundland and Labrador by the Minister for Intergovernmental and Aboriginal Affairs, Felix Collins.
“Our roundtable brought sector stakeholders together – government, industry, and aboriginal groups – to have an open discussion on best practices and new requirements in aboriginal engagement,” said Lomond.
Sessions led by sector stakeholders included discussions on past agreements with aboriginal groups, recent approaches and experiences of industry practitioners, and perspectives on the consultation process from Aboriginal group representatives.
“NEIA’s role is to provide businesses and organizations working in the environmental sector in the province with the tools they need to grow our green economy and provide meaningful employment,” said Lomond. “Effective engagement and partnership with aboriginal groups will be vital in the growth of Newfoundland and Labrador’s economy.”
NEIA is a not-for-profit association of businesses that promotes the growth and development of the environmental industry in this province, offering a diverse range of expert knowledge and services in the business of mitigating and minimizing environmental damage for the protection and enhancement of the environment for present and future generations. NEIA has over 140 members.
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