About Aboriginal Relations
The Department of Energy is taking a pro-active approach to Aboriginal issues that may affect mineral activity in Alberta through its Aboriginal Relations Business Unit. Our unit works closely with Aboriginal communities, industry and both the provincial and federal governments to address issues that may impact mineral exploration and development on provincial Crown lands. We place a strong emphasis on developing and maintaining effective two-way relationships in order to keep communication lines open between all parties.
Through these communication lines, our Business Unit can:
- broaden Aboriginal communities’ understanding of the mineral resource industry, and local resource development opportunities;
- participate in the cross-ministry First Nations consultation initiative;
- assist in the mitigation of Aboriginal concerns involving mineral development on provincial Crown lands;
- facilitate resource training and business opportunities for Aboriginal community members;
- monitor important legal actions and court decisions that may impact Energy’s business; and,
- participate in land claim negotiations.
