In order for all Labradorians to prosper and live in harmony, we must work together to remove the uncertainty surrounding lands and resources. By agreeing on a land claims settlement, we will bring clarity to land ownership and the management of natural resources. And a land claims agreement will create a stable environment for development. In turn, it will encourage the Labrador Inuit to become full and active partners in the economic, social and cultural development of Labrador. A land claims agreement is simply the best solution for everyone.

Section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982 recognizes and affirms the existing Aboriginal and treaty rights of the Aboriginal peoples of Canada. Since the scope of Aboriginal rights is undefined, the Supreme Court of Canada has encouraged land claims negotiations as the preferred method for resolving disputed claims of Aboriginal rights and title.

A comprehensive land claims agreement is a modern treaty which provides an Aboriginal group with clearly defined land, resource and self-government rights. Such an agreement will create certainty and promote long-term economic and social development. Once a land claims agreement is ratified by both levels of government and the Aboriginal group, it will be constitutionally protected as a modern treaty.

Land claims settlements take a number of years to negotiate and involve three stages: Framework Agreement, Agreement-in-Principle (AIP) and Final Agreement. This process takes time because there are many factors to consider. We must ensure that the settlement is fair to everyone. At the same time, the settlement must respect Inuit heritage, culture and tradition. In this way we can provide clarity and stability for the future of all Labradorians.

The Labrador Inuit, the Province and the Government of Canada have taken a significant step forward in their land claims negotiations. The three parties have ratified the Agreement-in-Principle. This demonstrates their commitment to reach a fair Final Agreement.

The Final Agreement will likely take two years to complete. The following information outlines how you may be affected after the Final Agreement is in place.