Thank you, Mr. Chairman. There have been recent court cases that support some of the aboriginal positions that have been advanced, over the years, in regard to the scope of aboriginal or treaty rights and what it encompasses.
It is not for me to give them a sermon on what the downside or liabilities are if aboriginal groups should decide to negotiate certain provisions within their claims or treaty negotiations. I am sure they are acutely aware of those things and as the Member knows, when you negotiate an agreement, you have to know absolutely what it is you are agreeing to. There are things you will gain and things you will have to put aside or give up as a result of those negotiations. In many cases it is forever. You cannot come back to it and make changes. I am sure all the groups are aware of it. The Gwich'in, the Inuvialuit and the Sahtu have been quite willing to negotiate and conclude agreements. Further south they have not, for whatever reason, reached any type of agreement. The ambiguity is all there. I am sure they appreciate the advice. Thank you.