Negotiations


The Made-in-Nova Scotia Process is the forum for the Mi'kmaq, Nova Scotia and Canada to resolve issues related to Mi'kmaq treaty rights, Aboriginal rights, including Aboriginal title, and Mi'kmaq governance. The process involves the Mi'kmaq of Nova Scotia as represented by the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi'kmaq Chiefs and the provincial and federal governments.

On February 23, 2007, the parties signed the Mi'kmaq-Nova Scotia-Canada Framework Agreement for the Made-in-Nova Scotia Process. The Framework Agreement was an important milestone because it confirmed each party's commitment to work to resolve Mi'kmaq rights issues through negotiation in a spirit of reconciliation. The agreement set out important procedures and a list of negotiation topics to steer the parties as they proceed. As negotiations progress the Province remains guided by three Negotiation Goals:

  • Enhanced legal clarity on rights issues;
  • Improved and stable relations; and
  • Reduced social and economic disparity

The Made-in-Nova Scotia Process covers a broad spectrum of issues and addresses concerns across the entire province. The Negotiation Main Table meetings take place 9 - 11 times per year and are typically held in Halifax or a Mi'kmaq community throughout Nova Scotia.