News release

N.S. to Assess N.B. Ruling

Natural Resources (to July 2018)

The Nova Scotia government will review a court decision released today in New Brunswick that deals with aboriginal logging on Crown land.

A New Brunswick provincial court judge ruled that a Mi'kmaq harvester is guilty of violating the Crown Lands and Forests Act.

"Our legal staff will review today's ruling to see whether any aspects relate to our own legal proceedings here in Nova Scotia," said Ernest Fage, Nova Scotia's Minister of Natural Resources. "Our position remains the same -- illegal harvesting will not be tolerated."

Mr. Fage sent a letter last month to representatives of Mi'kmaq communities in Nova Scotia, inviting them to take part in discussions over forestry issues.

"This government agrees that negotiated settlements are the preferred option," said Mr. Fage. "We've indicated that any such arrangements could address the interests of both the Mi'kmaq and the province. An agreement would in no way prejudice the rights and interests of either party as we explore broader negotiations that could also include timber harvesting."

Michael Baker, the Minister responsible for Aboriginal Affairs, also indicated at an all-chiefs meeting in February that the province would like to pursue negotiated settlements.

Mr. Baker said agreements can provide certainty and clarity not only for the Mi'kmaq and province, but for industry stakeholders and other interested groups.