Haines Junction, Yukon (September 23, 2009) - The Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, Yukon Premier Dennis Fentie, Council of Yukon First Nations Grand Chief Andy Carvill and chiefs from self-governing Yukon First Nations gathered today for an Intergovernmental Forum in Haines Junction.

The three levels of government met face-to-face, shared information and discussed common issues and cooperative approaches to succeed in self-government implementation and economic development in the Yukon.

“Today was a welcome opportunity for open dialogue,” said Minister Strahl. “The Yukon is different than the rest of Canada, with unique challenges and opportunities. That is why it is important for the three levels of government to meet and discuss cooperative and coordinated ways of advancing First Nations self-government and the economic prosperity of the Yukon.”

“This forum is valuable in enabling federal, territorial and First Nation government leaders to meet and address challenges that affect Yukon citizens,” said Yukon Premier Fentie. “We discussed issues of importance and our commitment to continue advancing our collaborative relationships.”

"We see the Intergovernmental Forum as a key institution of the governance system in the Yukon and believe that its discussions will serve to benefit all Yukoners," stated host Chief Diane Strand. "We have discussed some challenging issues today but I believe that we will be able to address those issues by working together and ultimately realize the objectives of our final and self-government agreements."

"Continuing collective efforts to successfully implement treaty arrangements remains a top priority for First Nation people," said Andy Carvill, Grand Chief of the Council of Yukon First Nations.

The forum provides an opportunity for Canada, Yukon, and self-governing First Nations to affirm their partnerships around the implementation of land claims and self-government agreements, discuss areas of mutual concern and advance intergovernmental relationships.