First Nations Consultation and Engagement

Recent Supreme Court rulings have fundamentally changed the development process for many industries in Canada. The courts have found that First Nations, Metis, and Inuit communities must be consulted where their rights may be impacted. There continues to be an ongoing discussion and debate about the new "Duty to Consult and Accommodate" in legal circles as well as in business.

McLeod Wood Associates Inc. has often acted as a bridge between First Nations and private businesses, as we are uniquely positioned to understand and explain both perspectives. Our firm can help you to understand your role as a project Proponent, what steps you can take to help fulfill this duty, and how to go beyond simply fulfilling a requirement to building a strong and lasting relationship for subsequent agreements.

MWA Inc. is able to provide a variety of community engagement solutions to businesses seeking to navigate the complex "duty to consult and accommodate" process:

McLeod Wood Associates Inc. has provided First Nations Awareness Training to business and government clients, providing an historical perspective and introduction to the aboriginal culture, while also demonstrating the significance and impact of recent court rulings. MWA Inc. can also assist clients in making initial contact with First Nations communities through its own extensive list of contacts and can accompany businesses on their first meetings to ensure that a positive relationship is developed.

McLeod Wood Associates Inc. believes that a long term positive relationship with an impacted First Nations or Métis community is a better outcome than a procedural consultation. Developing a relationship with First Nations will open many new opportunities, and can make the formal consultation process significantly easier. We can help your business get from the first handshake to a mutually beneficial long term relationship.