Canadian Electricity Association Adopts National Principles for Aboriginal Engagement
July 29, 2016
The Canadian Electricity Association (CEA) and its members have adopted six national principles that will guide their engagement with Aboriginal communities. This will reinforce and compliment the many local and regional relationships between CEA members and Aboriginal leaders.
The unprecedented electricity infrastructure investments Canada must undertake between now and 2030 represent a tremendous opportunity for all Canadians, and Aboriginal communities in particular, says CEA. Between now and 2030, more than $350 billion will need to be invested in upgrading and expanding Canada’s electricity infrastructure.
The National Principles for Engagement of Aboriginal Peoples are designed to nurture meaningful long-term relationships, enhance mutually beneficial economic relationships and business opportunities, and ensure further consideration of Aboriginal perspectives. They include:
1. Respecting Aboriginal Culture, Traditional Values, and Rights
2. Nurturing Constructive Relationships
3. Enhancing Communications
4. Fostering Aboriginal Capacity Building
5. Promoting Economic Prosperity
6. Facilitating Crown Consultation
“Canada’s electricity sector considers open and transparent engagement with stakeholders and First Nations of paramount importance,” says Scott Thon, President and Chief Executive Officer of AltaLink, and Chair of the CEA Board. “As the electricity industry moves to enable a more sustainable energy future, the opportunities to work together are critical to delivering social, economic and environmental benefits to all Canadians.”
Studies show that if Aboriginal people in Canada reach the same education and employment level as non-indigenous people, Canada’s GDP would increase by $401 billion by 2026.
Read the Canadian Electricity Association National Principles for Engagement of Aboriginal Peoples here: http://www.electricity.ca/media/AE_-_Principles.EN_-Signed2.pdf.
Image courtesy of dan at FreeDigitalPhotos.net.
