Thank you, Mr. Speaker. What if I told you the next big business movement in the NWT, and it's already happening, is that Indigenous organizations are going to become actual owners of mineral resource projects?
Mr. Speaker, relations between Indigenous Peoples and resource developers have been difficult in the past. A lack of respect for treaties and an often inconsiderate industry attitude toward First Peoples have strained relations, so it's easy to understand the degree of mistrust about mineral resource projects.
However, in recent years, there has been an obvious change. Since the start of the diamond mines and the execution of impact benefit agreements, both sides increasingly understand that the real collaboration can be very profitable. Indigenous governments have formed economic development corporations that provide a multitude of services to the mines; human resources, catering, and camp services, to name a few. The Dene Nation took it a step further when the Denendeh Development Corporation created its own exploration and development company.
These past 20 years of doing business together has revealed a change in mindset. Reconciliation is the current priority between Indigenous Peoples and Canada, and that involves greater recognition of Indigenous rights and the abandonment of harmful policies. It will only truly be achieved, however, when Indigenous Peoples have the power to create their own economic freedom and decrease their dependence on government support.
Mr. Speaker, I believe the Indigenous people of the NWT have found the solution through building partnerships in resource development, but we're about to see this go one step further to ownership.
Mr. Speaker, a key discussion at roundup this year was how Indigenous groups want to become involved in resource development, and what benefits they will derive. Equity ownership is the new partnership. The resulting wealth creation and prosperity will lead to economic empowerment and self-determination.
Mr. Speaker, it is time to acknowledge that Indigenous people want to improve their living standards and provide a better future for their children. Their socio-economic situation may remain difficult, but the NWT proves that Indigenous communities are reconciling economic development and empowerment while continuing to be respectful stewards of the land and the environment. There are many reasons to be optimistic about our economic future, Mr. Speaker, and Indigenous ownership in mineral resource development is one of them. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.