Madam Chair, the consultant has been engaged in this area for some years already. He has regular contact with all the different parties actively engaged in the whole issue of traditional knowledge. For instance, there was some contact meeting with the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation in early January. There was some exchange of information at that level. There has been frequent information sharing exchanges with the Dene Cultural Institute, with the University of Alaska, with the University of Manitoba and other academics across this country who are debating and working to define the way in which the academic community should view and relate to traditional knowledge. There are different activities going on. For instance, there was an elders' workshop in Rae Edzo over the weekend. The consultant was involved with that exercise. I have invited the consultant to attend the Protected Areas Strategy Conference in Inuvik next week to offer some insight into how that whole exercise could be seen if the elders of the Inuvialuit, the Inuit, the Dene and Metis had undertaken such a project themselves. We are looking to receive some advice from the consultant on whether or not the way we are organized is conducive to better use and recognition of traditional knowledge as a government. Whether or not the way we make decisions could be enhanced through recognition of traditional knowledge. Eventually, we hope there is some advice given on how we can enhance operations of government in all sectors. One place could be here in this very House and the way we relate to one another. The rules we operate under are totally void of any recognition of traditional knowledge, the habits, the values, and the traditions of the first peoples of this country. Do we want to have it reflected in here? At some time or other someone can make some suggestions about how it could be done if that political decision is made. Until then, we will continue to operate under the good rules of Robert. Thank you.
Stephen Kakfwi on Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
In the Legislative Assembly on February 26th, 1997. See this statement in context.
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
February 25th, 1997
Page 902
See context to find out what was said next.