Finally, Mr. Chairman, it was raised by the committee that aboriginal groups may not have enough funding to adequately participate in self-government negotiations. Current funding arrangements lie with the federal government. Funds are offered as a loan against the final settlement after completion of settled land claim agreements. A number of communities are against this method of funding but do not have an alternative. In response, the ministry stated that negotiations are a federal responsibility and that the ministry works with the federal government to encourage them to work with aboriginal groups. The ministry suggested that it does work directly with aboriginal groups if groups approach them for help.

That is the report of the committee, and I thank you, Mr. Chairman.