I do respect the timeline, but I also respect the process. This is an important piece of legislation, and we should be able to do due diligence.

The absence of any explicit reference to engaging or collaborating with Indigenous governments or organizations in the development of regulations for the Protected Areas Act should not be taken as a lack of commitment by the GNWT to meet its obligations to consult with IGOs, IGOs, IGOs and its commitment to collaborating with Indigenous governments and organizations.

The Intergovernmental Council has undertaken a lessons-learned process on the development of post-devolution legislation and where common processes could be developed around land, water, and resources legislation. Any approach to regulation development needs careful consideration, and consistency will be one of the issues discussed. The approach is part of the consideration in the evolving relationship between the GNWT and Indigenous governments and organizations. Approaches to regulation development must be consistent with lands and natural resources legislation, not better in respect of jurisdictions, including the authority of the Legislative Assembly, will be a key consideration.

As a result, we do not support adding requirements related to this matter in the public Protected Areas Act without further consideration. Such discussions are already occurring with the Indigenous governments at the Intergovernmental Council. As mentioned, discussions regarding common process with respect to land, water, and resources legislation is occurring at the Intergovernmental Council. Indigenous governments and organizations who are not members of the IGC will be engaged by the GNWT. Thank you, Mr. Chair.