About the Department
Vision
The vision of Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs is the resolution of questions surrounding Aboriginal rights and titles in the province, a cooperative and productive relationship with Labrador and Aboriginal communities, and the achievement of social and economic well-being for Labrador and for Aboriginal peoples.
^ Top of Page
Mandate
By 2011, the Department of Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs will have advocated for the progression of the social and economic development of Labrador and, with the continuing concurrence and participation of the federal government and/or relevant Aboriginal group(s), will have progressed in the negotiation and implementation of agreements with Aboriginal groups/governments throughout the province.
^ Top of Page
Lines of Business
The Department undertakes its mandate through the following lines of business:
- Policy and Planning
The Department is responsible for the development, implementation and administration of provincial policies and associated agreements respecting Labrador and Aboriginal issues.
The Department, in collaboration with other provincial public entities, negotiates and/or implements agreements with the federal government and/or Aboriginal groups/ governments; liaises with other jurisdictions and national Aboriginal organizations; and manages intergovernmental relations with respect to Aboriginal issues.
- Land Claims, Self-Government and Other Agreements
The Department is responsible for tripartite negotiations among the Province, Canada and Aboriginal groups/governments towards land claims, self-government and other agreements. The Department is responsible for ensuring the implementation and management of these agreements.
- Program Administration and Coordination
The Department is responsible for the administration of the following:
- Air Foodlift Subsidy,
- Labrador Transportation Grooming Subsidy,
- Suicide and Detrimental Lifestyles Grant Program,
- Williams Harbour Scheduled Air Service Subsidy and
- Combined Councils of Labrador funding.
Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs assists and coordinates other interdepartmental and regional initiatives. The Department liaises with other northern ministries and assists in the management of intergovernmental relations on Labrador/northern issues.
^ Top of Page