On the other hand, progress is being made in bilateral discussions between the GNWT and the Dehcho First Nations on issues related to devolution, and I’m told the finish line is practically in sight. As the MLA for Deh Cho, I want to reiterate my support for the successful conclusion of the Dehcho Process.
The negotiations are complex and difficult. Negotiators must deal with challenging subjects and times when the positions of the parties seem very far apart. I want to stress to the parties the importance of taking an interest-based versus a positional approach to negotiations.
When the negotiations are at their most difficult, I want to encourage all of the parties at the table not to lose sight of the main goal for why these negotiations are happening, so that the Dehcho First Nations people can finally be in control of their own destiny and govern themselves on their own lands. This, I believe, is in the best interests of all Northerners and Canadians. Mahsi.