Media.Knet.Ca

Press release ...

Spider Resources Inc. and UC Resources Limited Commence Spring Geophysical Program at McFaulds VMS Project in Northern Ontario

TORONTO, ONTARIO--(June 15, 2007) -

Spider Resources Inc. ("Spider") (TSX VENTURE:SPQ), and UC Resources Ltd. ("UC") (TSX VENTURE:UC) are pleased to announce the startup of a UTEM (deep electromagnetic) geophysical program at the McFauld's Lake volcanic-hosted massive sulphide ("VMS") project, located in northern Ontario in the James Bay Lowlands. La Montagne Geophysics Limited ("La Montagne") of Kingston, Ontario has recently been awarded the geophysical contract to complete a UTEM 3 survey over Grid "C" that covers McFauld's #3 and #1 VMS occurrences. The La Montagne geophysical crew mobilized to the project and arrived on site June 8, surveying commenced on June 9. Approximately one half of the proposed program (plus infill lines) has been completed to date, they expect to be finished this phase of the exploration program by June 20th.

Cabo Drilling (Ontario) Corp. has recently been awarded a drill contract that involves the drilling of 4000 meters of core to commence prior to end of June. Les Helicopteres Abitibi Ltee., have been contracted to support the geophysical and drill programs. Several workers are presently on site, some of whom represent the Marten Falls Reserve and Webequie First Nation engaged in the geophysical phase of the project. Other First Nation communities will be introduced to the project during the summer program in various roles. The on-site field aspects of the project are being overseen by Billiken Management Services Inc. ("Billiken") of Toronto. Dr. Howard Lahti P.Geo., an Independent Qualified Person has been mandated with overseeing the field aspects of the project by Billiken. Neil Novak P.Geo., President of Spider Resources Inc., Vice President of UC Resources Ltd., and the former President of Billiken is fulfilling the role of Qualified Person on behalf of Spider and UC. As of June 1, 2007, Mr. Novak's interest in Billiken was sold to an arms length party, and Billiken therefore ceases to be a related party.

The current program is funded entirely by UC Resources Limited ("UC"), in compliance with their funding obligation for the project. UC has an option to earn-in up to a 55% undivided interest in the McFauld's Lake project, which is currently owned, as to an undivided 50% interest, by each of Spider and KWG, as per the LOI signed in early March 2007. UC shall then become the operator of the property during the term of their option.

The McFauld's Lake VMS project was initially discovered in 2002, while Spider, KWG and De Beers Canada Exploration Inc. were exploring the project area in joint venture for kimberlites. De Beers holds a 1.5% net smelter royalty on the project, 0.5% of which can be purchased from De Beers by Spider and KWG for $1.5 million. The claims outlined for the aforementioned perimeter survey define the property that De Beers has the royalty on. To date, 10 isolated VMS occurrences have been identified and drill tested on the project, two of which (McFauld's #1 and #3) have undergone detail drilling.

Results of the recent (April 2007) gravimetric survey by Dr. Allan Spector, consultant to JVX Ltd., suggested that there are present 4 gravity anomalies, coincident with the 4 known and partially drilled sulphide occurrences (referred to as McFaulds #1, #2, #3 and #4) all within the main "C" grid. When referring to McFaulds #3 occurrence, Dr. Spector stated "M3 is an egg-shaped gravity anomaly about 0.8 mgal in amplitude, observed on 3 lines; 500E, 800E and 1100E." The anomalous zone has a strike length of about 800m. From modeling it has a thickness of about 20m and a depth extent of over 300m." Dr. Spector estimates that the M3 anomaly represents excess mass of 6 million tons. This estimate is not considered a "resource estimate" for the McFaulds #3 massive sulphide occurrence, it is merely an interpretation of mass based upon the measured varying physical properties of the rocks that contain this massive sulphide occurrence, when compared to the surrounding rocks. This information, however, gives management a better understanding of the possible scope or size potential for this partially drilled off massive sulphide occurrence, as well as the other nearby occurrences, which were covered by the recent survey.

UC plans to continue exploring this new VMS camp and will initially concentrate their efforts on the McFaulds #3 and #1 occurrences.

States Neil D. Novak, President & CEO of Spider, as well as VP Exploration for UC: "Spider and UC are quite excited to commence this late spring, early summer program on the McFaulds project. The completion of the recent gravity survey funded by Spider offered some understanding of the scope of the project. The ongoing compilation of existing geophysical data for the project, merged with this new UTEM data, will facilitate the planning of the next, more expensive, round of exploration which will include drilling the McFaulds VMS occurrences beyond what has already been drilled. Spider and UC are currently finalizing an updated NI 43-101 report that summarizes the project results to date, and will file same upon completion. In addition RPA Scott Wilson have also been retained to provide an initial review and quantification of the resource potential of the two massive sulphide zones already drilled, which will be updated as the drill program progresses over the summer."

Spider Resources Inc. is a tier 2 Canadian exploration company, quoted for trading on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol SPQ. There are 242,193,535 shares issued in Spider.

On behalf of the board of directors,

Neil Novak, President and CEO

This press release, required by applicable Canadian securities law, is not for distribution to U.S. news services or for dissemination in the United States, and does not constitute an offer of the securities described herein. These securities have not been registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or any state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to U.S. persons unless registered or exempt therefrom.

This press release includes certain "Forward-Looking Statements" within the meaning of the US Private Securities Reform Act of 1995. Other than statements of historical fact, all statements are "Forward-Looking Statements" that involve such various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove accurate. Results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Readers of this press release are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these "Forward-Looking Statements". All dollar amounts are Canadian dollars unless otherwise noted.

For more information, please contact

Spider Resources Inc.
Toronto Head Office
#1000, 15 Toronto St.
Toronto Ontario, M5C 2E3 Canada
(416) 815-8666

or

Spider Resources Inc.
Jim Voisin
Communications Manager
(519) 699-5352
Website: www.spiderresources.net

From the National Post ...

First Nations important to energy future: minister
April Lindgren, CanWest News Service, June 14, 2007

TORONTO -- Aboriginal land claims in Ontario represent both a challenge and an opportunity in terms of the province's future energy security, Energy Minister Dwight Duncan said yesterday.

"First Nations are extremely important to our energy future, particularly our renewable [energy] future," Mr. Duncan told reporters after announcing a program aimed at encouraging the development of small water power projects in northern Ontario.

The minister acknowledged the slow pace of resolving land claims has caused delays in some cases.

"I wouldn't call it a threat [to the province's future energy security] but it causes too much time to go by ... We believe they [land claims] have to be resolved."

The Ontario Power Authority, for example, last year outlined a long-term power-generation-and-transmission plan that aims to ensure adequate supplies of electricity in the future. Release of the final report, however, has been delayed by several months until August in order to consult more fully with aboriginal groups.

In addition to encouraging the development of small hydro projects in the province's north, Ontario's Liberal government is negotiating a major purchase of electricity from Manitoba that would require the construction of a long-distance transmission line across large tracts of land claimed by aboriginal people.

Mr. Duncan noted aboriginal leaders have expressed an interest in becoming partners in a range of electricity-related projects and "our view is that we have to involve them intimately."

Michael Fox, a resource development adviser with the Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund in northern Ontario, said yesterday aboriginal groups see the power projects as a major opportunity to generate jobs and investment.

He said there are at least two dozen hydro and wind projects in the north that First Nations groups expect to participate in either as the principal developers or through minority or majority partnerships.

An alliance of First Nations is also exploring the impact of the proposed transmission corridor from Manitoba with a view to perhaps becoming the main proponent for the project, he said.

Mr. Fox said aboriginal groups in the north are also benefiting from an Ontario government policy that says only aboriginal groups can apply to develop hydro projects on northern rivers.

"That's a quantum leap from the old Ontario Hydro days, when they would come in and cherry pick" the best projects, he said.

Mr. Duncan's comments come as Ontario First Nations chiefs prepare to vote on a proposed deal that could bring them $2.5-billion in provincial lottery and casino revenue over the next 20 years.

The agreement in principle was signed a year ago and negotiators have been working out the details since then.

It will go before Ontario chiefs for ratification on Monday.

Under a pre-existing contract that runs until 2011, First Nations in Ontario were entitled to a share of gaming revenue from a single site, Casino Rama.

That was worth about $60-million annually.

Once the existing deal expires, the new arrangement will give 133 aboriginal communities about $125-million a year from all provincial gaming operations.

From CNEWS ...

We need to listen to Native leaders
By CHRISTINA BLIZZARD -- Sun Media - June 14, 2007

PICKLE LAKE (Sun Media) -- It was the children who captured the heart of Governor General Michaelle Jean on her first visit to a remote Ontario aboriginal community.

At a small welcoming ceremony at Pickle Lake airport, it seemed as if everyone in this tiny, isolated community 2,200 km northeast of Toronto had turned out to meet her.

The Canadian Rangers, an aboriginal group attached to the military, stood stoically on the sweltering tarmac awaiting Jean's inspection.

School children waited patiently, carefully holding up a Canadian flag for the vice-regal visitor.

On cue, they burst into a heartfelt rendition of O Canada. They waved their flag and sang at the top of their lungs for her.

It touched the hearts of the visitors not just, I suspect, because adorable children doing lovely things always touch our hearts.

In this case, you also look at their young faces and wonder whether that flag and the government it represents deserve such passionate loyalty from this group of disadvantaged children.

Poverty is intense in isolated aboriginal communities. You see the ramshackle homes, the poorly-equipped schools and you come to the conclusion this is our Third World -- in the backyard of a First World country.

That's the view of Nishnawbe Aski Nation Grand Chief Stan Beardy, who was on hand in neighbouring Mishkeegogaman First Nation, where 134 chiefs from around the province welcomed Jean to their annual three-day conference. He noted that the 100th anniversary of the signing of Treaty 9, which established his nation, happened two years ago -- so a visit from a government official is overdue to celebrate the centenary.

That said, he's glad Jean battled the blackflies to meet with them.

The Grand Chief added that treaties have worked well for the rest of us in the province -- but not for aboriginals: "Canada and Ontario have benefitted greatly from the agreement we made 100 years ago, but from our side, we haven't benefitted at all."

Beardy isn't a hothead. We should take heed when he says he'd like to see First Nations people share in the rich resource revenues. They need a cut of the economic pie.

Aboriginal young people want training in mining, forestry and the pulp and paper business but Beardy points to the De Beers diamond mine near the James Bay aboriginal community of Attawapiskat as an example of goverment meddling.

First Nations leaders negotiated a revenue-sharing deal directly with the multinational diamond company. But those revenues have now been sharply reduced by a massive hike in mining royalties announced in Finance Minister Greg Sorbara's spring budget.

Beardy represents 50 communities over a 5-million hectare area. Two-thirds of the population is under 29 and unemployment in that age group is 85%.

In Ottawa, Indian Affairs Minister Jim Prentice announced a new process to speed up land claims this week.

At least it's a start.

Beardy says the native Day of Action June 29 isn't about blockades and disruption. He hopes it will be an opportunity to peacefully educate the rest of the country about the disgraceful conditions on remote reserves.

"I hope we can create awareness for the general public that yes, there are treaties that are legally binding," Beardy said.

We should listen to him. Then when aboriginal children like those at Pickle Lake proudly wave their red maple leaf, we can look them in the eye and tell them we will not fail them.

From CNEWS ....

Natives benefit in casino deal
By CHINTA PUXLEY - June 14, 2007

TORONTO (CP) - Ontario's aboriginal communities could get $2.5 billion over the next 20 years for community health care, education and infrastructure under a new proposed deal to share revenue from provincial lotteries and casinos.

Provincial negotiators say the deal, if ratified by Ontario chiefs when they put it to a vote June 18, would be the first agreement of its kind in Canada since it gives 133 aboriginal communities a cut of the province's gaming revenue.

The deal would also give First Nations representation on the board of the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corp., giving them a say in how the organization is run. Ontario chiefs would in turn agree to drop an ongoing lawsuit against the province regarding casino revenues.

"This is a huge deal," said former Ontario Liberal premier David Peterson, the province's chief negotiator.

"It's a big, big, big pile of money. It's a flow of money into these communities the likes of which they haven't had. It's stable. They can count on it for education, for water, for all the things that are so important in the communities."

Under the current deal, which expires in 2011, some aboriginal communities get a cut of the revenue generated by Casino Rama near Orillia, Ont., which works out to an average of $60 million a year.

Under the proposed agreement, the 133 aboriginal communities would get a cut of all the provincial cash that comes from gaming, essentially doubling their annual revenue share to about $125 million.

Communities would get $112 million immediately upon signing the deal.

"This is groundbreaking," said Peterson, who has been negotiating the deal since February 2005. "It is a brand new partnership with the aboriginal communities. . . . I think the rest of the country can look at this and say this is something we can be very proud of."

Sharing gaming revenue has been a thorny issue for governments of all stripes in Ontario. Casino Rama was originally set up as a First Nations Casino with revenue going to communities within the Ontario First Nations Limited Partnership.

A 20 per cent "win tax" - imposed on Casino Rama by the former Conservative government in 1996 - prompted several lawsuits from aboriginal communities and Ontario chiefs, claiming the government was not entitled to a cut of the casino profits.

Harvey Yesno, chair of the First Nations partnership, said chiefs are split on whether they want to continue with the lawsuit or settle for a stable source of revenue.

"This deal is not a slam dunk by any stretch," said Yesno, adding it has to be approved by a two-thirds majority. "There are some serious concerns. There is going to be a debate."

Some chiefs feel the $2.5 billion isn't that much when they look at how much the province rakes in from its lotteries and casinos, he said.

The cash communities have received from the current agreement has been put to good use and has been used to leverage even more money for community centres and health promotion, Yesno said.

Other chiefs, however, are looking for more than just money, he added.

"This is just one more source of revenue," Yesno said. "It's also about the relationship between the province and the First Nations. That's part and parcel of the whole arrangement."

David Ramsay, minister responsible for aboriginal affairs, said he knows chiefs have mixed feelings about the proposed deal because some would like aboriginals to have complete jurisdiction over gaming in Ontario.

But Ramsay said he's still hopeful the deal will be ratified since the money would make a huge difference to the province's aboriginal communities.

"It's really badly needed money and I hope there is a positive outcome," he said.

New Democrat Gilles Bisson said $2.5 billion is little more than an easy way for the province to avoid costly lawsuits.

It may sound like a lot of money, but Bisson said it doesn't make up for the cash taken over the last decade by the province through the win tax, nor does it address the desperate need of many aboriginal communities.

Over 60 northern aboriginal communities don't have potable water and most don't have adequate sewer systems or proper housing, he said.

"People need to understand that $2.5 billion over 20 years is a drop in the bucket towards the needs of those communities," he said. "This is obviously needed money but it doesn't undo the damage that's been done up until now."

AFN Media Advisory ...

Conference on the Canadian Truth Commission on Indian Residential Schools
 
OTTAWA, June 14 - Beginning tomorrow, Friday, to Monday, June 17, the University of Calgary and the Assembly of First Nations will co-host a unique and very important conference to address the historic Truth and Reconciliation Commission which begins its work this fall.

The Truth Commission is one part of the comprehensive settlement reached between the AFN, the residential school survivors, the churches and the government of Canada to settle thousands of claims brought in the courts for sexual and physical abuse as well as for loss of language and culture which occurred over several generations of students.

News conference to be held at 10: 45 a.m. (Mountain Time) tomorrow, Fri., Jun.15/07

MacEwan Hall Ballroom (2nd floor MacEwan Hall), University of Calgary

Present will be Conference Co-chairs:
National Chief Phil Fontaine, Assembly of First Nations
Kathleen Mahoney, Professor, Faculty of Law
Bob Watts, Interim Executive Director, Indian Residential Schools Truth and Reconciliation Commission

Available for comment/interviews:
Lisa Magarrell, International Centre for Transitional Justice
Rev. Bongani Finca, formerly of South African Truth Commission

Other Key Note speakers include: Minister Jim Prentice, Piers Pigou (South Africa), Dr. Sophia Macher (Peru), Mary Raftery (Ireland), Michael Enright (CBC), and others.

For further information: Nancy Pine, Communications Advisor - Office of the National Chief, (613) 241-6789 ext 243, (613) 298-6382, npine@afn.ca;. Kim Reinhart, University of Calgary, Bus: (403) 239-8982, Cell: (403) 861-2065, cantus@shaw.ca;. Bryan Hendry, A/Director of Communications, (613) 241-6789 ext. 229, cell (613) 293-6106, bhendry@afn.ca.

+++++++++++

From the conference web site at http://www.truthcommissionconference.org

On June 14 - 17, 2007, the U of C Faculty of Law and the AFN will host a national, interdisciplinary conference on this historic Truth Commission which begins its work later this year.  The conference is designed to engage and inform survivors, and the general non-Aboriginal public about the Commission’s mandate, and how they can participate. Conference delegates will discuss such topics as:

• The nature, challenges and opportunities of a truth commission;
• Lessons learned from truth commissions in other countries;
• Intergenerational and gender issues;
• The impact of media on the process;
• Involvement of Elders and Youth
• Research requirements and involvement of experts;
• Commemoration ideas and projects;
• National and community events;
• Preserving the historical record

The conference will simultaneously seek extensive input and recommendations on the various elements of the Commission and its future work, including strategies that will ensure maximum participation in the Truth Commission.

Additional links to Residential School information:

1. The Assembly of First Nations Residential Schools Unit - www.afn.ca/residentialschools/index.html
2. Indian Residential Schools Class Action Settlement – Official Court Website – www.residentialschoolssettlement.com
3. National Residential School Survivors’ Society – www.nrsss.ca
4. The Native Center at the University of Calgary - www.ucalgary.ca/nativecr
5. Indian Residential Schools Resolution Canada - www.irsr-rqpi.gc.ca
6. Federal Representative – Indian Residential Schools – www.iacobucci.gc.ca/english/index.html
7. Bibliography of Residential Schools Court Cases – www.usask.ca/nativelaw/rsbib.html
8. Xwi7xwa Library – First Nations Residential Schools comprehensive internet links listing – www.library.ubc.ca/xwi7xwa/res.htm

Press Release ...

Superior Initiates Diamond Drill Program, Canopener Gold Joint Venture, Lansdowne House Area, Northwestern Ontario

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(June 14, 2007) - Superior Diamonds Inc. (TSX VENTURE:SUP) ("Superior" or the "Company") is pleased to announce commencement of a first phase diamond drill program on its 50%-owned Canopener Property, located near Lansdowne House, Northwestern Ontario. Superior's joint venture partner is Lake Shore Gold Corp.(1). This program was initiated once an agreement was reached with the Neskantaga First Nation, upon whose traditional territory the Canopener property occurs.

As previously reported, the interest in this area for gold was sparked by the recovery of anomalous numbers of total gold grains from overburden samples, including anomalous values of pristine gold grains. (Gold, being relatively soft, remains as pristine grains for only a short distance from its source.) These samples, part of a regional sampling program, were originally collected to evaluate the area for its diamond potential. When Superior analysed the results of the overburden sampling program, it identified two significant and well defined gold grain dispersal trains. In addition, there were several single samples with anomalous gold grain values that did not appear to be associated with dispersal trains.

These anomalous gold grain values are associated with shear structures that occur within the Peeagwon metavolcanic assemblage of the Wunnummin Greenstone Belt. This belt is considered under-explored for gold. The Canopener property strategically covers a significant area of these shear structures from which the individual anomalous gold grain values and gold grain dispersal trains are thought to have been derived and within which several gold showings have been previously identified.

This purpose of this first phase of diamond drilling is to gain a better understanding of the local geology and to test some of the gold showings. Nine to twelve holes are planned and drilling should be completed by mid- to late July. A program to collect 200 to 250 overburden samples is planned to follow, for completion by mid-August. The purpose of this program is to: a) determine if there are other gold grain dispersal trains on the Canopener property, and b) determine if the single samples with anomalous gold grain values are part of other gold grain dispersal trains. Once the data from the first phase of diamond drilling and overburden sampling has been compiled and interpreted, Superior is anticipating a more extensive diamond drill program in early 2008.

About Superior Diamonds

Superior Diamonds is a junior Canadian exploration company, primarily searching for diamonds in the under-explored and highly prospective regions of the Canadian Shield within the Provinces of Ontario and Quebec. Over a period of just three years, Superior's highly skilled team has defined four promising target areas through grass roots exploration, and is now focused on prioritizing these targets for drilling. To diversify risk and balance its portfolio, the Company has adopted a strategy to explore for other commodities where it has a proven track record of expertise, including uranium. The Company is a reporting issuer in British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario and Quebec, and trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol SUP.

Superior Diamonds is owned 13.0% by Southwestern Resources Corp. and 10.8% by FNX Mining Company Inc.

Forward-looking Statements

Statements in this release that are forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties concerning the specific factors disclosed under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's periodic filings with Canadian securities regulators. Such information contained herein represents management's best judgment as of the date hereof based on information currently available. The Company does not assume the obligation to update any forward-looking statements.

(1) For details, see Superior's news release dated January 15, 2007, available at www.superiordiamonds.ca.

The TSX Venture Exchange does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

For more information, please contact

Superior Diamonds Inc.
John G. Paterson
President
(604) 806-0667
(604) 688-5175 (FAX)

or

Superior Diamonds Inc.
Thomas F. Morris
VP Exploration
(705) 525-0992
(705) 525-7701 (FAX)
Email: info@superiordiamonds.ca.
Website: www.superiordiamonds.ca

From CBC online ...

Land claims deal should ease tensions: Prentice
June 13, 2007

The federal government's proposed plan to improve the native land claims system and settle hundreds of long-standing disputes should help ensure an aboriginal national day of action later this month is peaceful, Federal Indian Affairs Minister Jim Prentice says.

Prentice hailed the Conservative government's plan Wednesday as a "major breakthrough" that would reduce anger among First Nations communities and expedite the resolution of more than 800 outstanding land claims across Canada, which take an average of 13 years to process.

But he also warned that any confrontation or blockade on June 29 would be "counter-productive" and "erode the good will that exists toward aboriginal programs and services."

"We want to see peaceful demonstrations that day and we don't want to see any of the illegal actions that would disrupt the lives of innocent people," Prentice told CBC News Wednesday.

First Nations leaders say the day of action is designed to draw attention to outstanding land claims, and to the racism and poverty faced by their communities.

But Chief Terry Nelson of the Roseau River First Nation in Manitoba has threatened to block railway lines running through his community on the day of action.

Prentice said the response he has heard so far from First Nations leaders across the country has been supportive, but added he can understand why the announcement would arouse suspicion.

"Frankly, it's because there's been a backlog of claims over the last 20 years," Prentice said. "First Nations have been very positive about what they've heard, but they want the system to work."

He cited the 150-year dispute at the centre of a continuing First Nations occupations in the southern Ontario community of Caledonia as an example of some of the long-standing claims that have fuelled aboriginal frustration.

Fontaine hails 'historic' proposal; others express doubts
The proposed bill allocates $250 million a year for 10 years to land claim settlements and calls for the creation of a new independent tribunal that will make final decisions about disputes.

The bill, announced Tuesday by Prime Minister Stephen Harper, will be tabled in the fall after a summer of discussions with native leaders from across Canada.

It calls for the transformation of the existing Indian Specific Claims Commission into a mediation body. The independent commission currently investigates disputes and makes recommendations, but has no power to make rulings.

At Harper's side Tuesday, Assembly of First Nations National Chief Phil Fontaine praised the government's "historic" proposal, saying it gives hope for First Nations people who have fought for decades for fair and just resolution on land claims.

But some regional First Nations representatives said Wednesday the bill is just a drop in the bucket.

Barry Bonspille, adviser to the Grand Chief of the Mohawk Council in Kanesatake, Que., said he can't believe Fontaine agreed to support the land claims proposal.

"To have the national chief support it gives credence to the Conservatives' point of view that they can handle things better than the Liberals," Bonspille told CBC News.

"Maybe they can, but certainly not with $250 million towards land claims [a year.]"

Related CBC Resources ...

• Harper promises bill to 'revolutionize' land claims process
• YOUR VIEW: Share your thoughts
• IN DEPTH: Aboriginal Canadians
  

MAURICE LAW BARRISTERS & SOLICITORS AND THE NATIVE LAW CENTRE OF CANADA UNIVERSITY OF SASKATCHEWAN

ABORIGINAL & TREATY RIGHTS ADVOCACY CONFERENCE
Calgary, Alberta July 31-August 1, 2007

GUIDING PRINCIPLES FOR SUCCESSFUL NEGOTIATION AND LITIGATION

Learn about recent legal developments in Aboriginal and treaty rights and gain insights into effective strategies for the resolution of land claims and litigation

•  Aboriginal and Treaty Rights and the Evolution of Claims Policy in Canada
• Negotiation or Litigation: Confrontational Issues Surrounding Land Claims Process
• Camp Ipperwash: Case Study on Resolution
• Treaty Land Entitlement and Agricultural Benefit Claims
• Reserve Land Surrenders and The Crown’s Fiduciary Duties
• Expropriation and Railway Claims
• Oil and Gas
• Duty to Consult
• Morris & Olsen [SCC – Dec 21, 2006]: Limited application of Provincial regulation on Treaty rights
• Métis Rights and Issues
• Mastering Principles of Compensation and Restitution to Maximize Settlements
• First Nation Issues and Land Management
• Settlement Trusts and Land Acquisition Strategies: “Putting Your Money to Work”
• Other Business Projects on Indian Reserves
  (agenda may slightly change without notice)

REGISTER NOW!

Deadline for Early Bird rate of $750 is July 1st

For A registration form and more information please contact:
Conference Coordinator
Betty Recollet (403) 589-7734
Email: recollet@telus.net 
Conference websites: www.mauricelaw.com  and www.deerfootinn.com 

Conference Hotel/Site:

Deerfoot Inn & Casino
11500-35 St. SW
Calgary, AB T2Z 3W4
Toll Free: 877-236-5225

BOOK YOUR ROOM NOW

Deadline to book rooms at the special conference rate of $159/night is July 3, 2007

Driving Directions:

Proceed West on Airport Rd NE
Turn Left on Barlow Trail NE
Turn Left onto Airport Trail NE
Merge onto Deerfoot Trail South
Drive and exit onto Barlow Trail N
(exit 240)
Turn left onto 114 Ave SE
Turn left onto 35 Street SE
End at Deerfoot Inn & Casino

Press Release ...

Saskatchewan Proclaims Aboriginal History Month
June 11, 2007

The Province of Saskatchewan has proclaimed June 2007 as Aboriginal History Month in recognition of First Nations, Métis and Inuit people's contributions to Canada.

"Aboriginal people have made, and continue to make, innumerable contributions to Saskatchewan and Canadian history, culture and society," First Nations and Métis Relations Minister Maynard Sonntag said. "The Government of Saskatchewan is pleased to pay tribute to First Nations, Métis and Inuit people and their achievements by designating June 2007 as Aboriginal History Month."

Aboriginal History Month is an initiative of the Regina Aboriginal Professionals Association (RAPA), a non-profit organization with a mission to develop a network of people committed to fostering opportunities for Aboriginal people in education, employment and economic development initiatives within Regina. Aboriginal History Month is also being designated by the City of Regina.

"Raising the social conscience of our communities, bringing positive energy, positive thoughts and sharing our knowledge so that our youth can embrace their Aboriginal heritage to exude confidence are all major reasons for RAPA to lead this provincial and national campaign," RAPA President Joely BigEagle said. "We will continue our campaign to have the month of June designated as Aboriginal History Month by the federal government, and invite all Saskatchewan First Nations, educational institutions and businesses to organize or partner with RAPA for June Aboriginal events."

"It's quite fitting that this initiative originates in Saskatchewan in light of the enormous contributions Saskatchewan Aboriginal people make to areas like politics, the arts and sports," Sonntag said. "The Province is proud to be among the first in Canada to support this exciting initiative."

For more information about RAPA's events and its efforts gain national support for Aboriginal History Month, visit www.rapanetwork.ca.

-30-

For more information, contact:

Shelley Fayant
First Nations and Métis Relations
Regina
Phone: 306-798-4071
Email: sfayant@fnmr.gov.sk.ca.

Joely BigEagle
Regina Aboriginal Professionals Association
Regina
Phone: 306-781-6354
Cell: 306-737-5703

AFN Press Release ...

National Chief Phil Fontaine Applauds today's Announcement by Prime Minister to Resolve Backlog of Specific Land Claims

     OTTAWA, June 12 /CNW Telbec/ - Assembly of First Nations National Chief Phil Fontaine said today's announcement by the Prime Minister is a positive response to what our people have advocated for decades, and it is a testament to the perseverance and dedication of our people.

     "This is a historic announcement, and a day to applaud the federal government on its commitment to resolving the growing land claims backlog," said National Chief Phil Fontaine, in reaction to Prime Minister Harper's announcement on a proposed new process to resolve specific land claims.

     "First Nations have been calling for a fair, independent, binding, and just approach to resolving specific land claims for decades now. In the coming days and over the summer, the AFN will be working with government to draft new Specific Claims legislation that will hopefully speed up the backlog of hundreds of unresolved treaty claims that have been the source of so much frustration among our people," said National Chief Fontaine. "The government's commitment to our full engagement in implementing this important initiative will be critical to its success."

     "I want to point out that while today's announcement is a significant step in the right direction, it is only one piece in a much larger puzzle that also requires immediate action," stressed National Chief Fontaine. "Too many of our people and our communities are mired in poverty and despair. We must address these conditions.

     "Land is part of the answer to building strong First Nations economies and strong First Nations citizens. This requires that we have the ability to take control of the decisions that affect our lives so we can reduce dependency and foster self-sufficiency. In doing so, we will build a stronger Canada for all Canadians.

     "We invite everyone to join us on June 29 in our National Day of Action, education, and awareness," added the National Chief. "We invite you to walk with us, talk with us, learn more about First Nations, and take action to make poverty history."

-30-

/For further information: Bryan Hendry, A/Director of Communications, (613) 241-6789, ext. 229, cell: (613) 293-6106, bhendry@afn.ca; Nancy Pine, Communications Advisor, Office of the National Chief, (613) 241-6789, ext. 243, cell: (613) 298-6382, npine@afn.ca; Rene Pollett, Communications Specialist, (613) 241-6789, ext. 314, cell: (613) 295-2149, rpollett@afn.ca/

++++++++++++++++++

From CBC News online ...

New law expected to speed land claims
June 11, 2007

Prime Minister Stephen Harper is expected to announce plans Tuesday to speed land claims, as native groups prepare for a national day of action on June 29.
 
Sources say Harper will propose a plan that follows the recommendations of the Senate standing committee on aboriginal peoples. The committee examined ways to streamline the settlement process, which now takes an average of 13 years.

One of the things it recommended was increased funding to speed the process. Sources with the Assembly of First Nations say Harper could put as much as $250 million a year toward settling the claims — more money than the assembly had hoped for.

Also expected is legislation, to be co-written with the national AFN, outlining how to settle the outstanding claims.

A new, independent agency is expected to be established to settle some of the claims.

Currently, the Indian Claims Commission investigates treaty violations, but it cannot make binding rulings. Critics have long called for an independent land claims process with more money and staff to settle cases.

There are more than 800 outstanding specific land claims in Canada, according to the commission, which has a staff of 51 people and had an annual budget of $6.9 million in the fiscal year 2005-2006.

The Assembly of First Nations has said it would take about 130 years to resolve the outstanding claims at the current pace of negotiations.

The assembly has called for a national day of action on June 29 to draw attention to outstanding land claims, and to the racism and poverty faced by First Nations communities.

While Phil Fontaine, the head of the AFN, has always said he prefers peaceful diplomacy, Chief Terry Nelson of the Roseau River First Nation in Manitoba has threatened to block railway lines running through his community on the day of action.

++++++++

From the Globe and Mail ...

Harper aims to speed land claim settlements
SUE BAILEY - Canadian Press
June 11, 2007

OTTAWA — Prime Minister Stephen Harper is expected to announce plans to speed land claims as native groups prepare for a potentially tense day of action June 29.

Sources say Mr. Harper will propose a bill Tuesday to streamline the settlement process, a discredited system that now takes an average of 13 years.

But real results could be months away, if they come at all.

The legislation, to be co-written with the national Assembly of First Nations, won't be introduced in the Commons until the fall. It would have to pass a fractious and unstable Parliament before committing any new money for specific land-claims research or compensation.

Mr. Harper is also expected to support giving more power to the Indian Claims Commission, which investigates treaty violations but can't make binding rulings. And native leaders will be watching to what extent the bill may cap settlement amounts or impose deadlines for filing claims.

Critics have long called for a truly independent land claims process with more money and staff to settle cases. Ottawa has until now acted as defendant, judge and jury in disputes that have overstretched bureaucratic and native resources.

Native frustration has flared over the past year, prompting fiery barricades and sometimes ugly conflict. Demonstrations, including rail blockades, are planned June 29 by leaders who have taken a wait-and-see attitude toward federal promises of action. The federal government has itself estimated that it owes native bands billions of dollars for breached or unfulfilled treaties.

“Deferring payment of this liability, while land development continues and interest compounds, can only increase the ultimate financial cost of settlements,” Michael Coyle, a law professor at University of Western Ontario, testified last fall before a Senate committee studying the process.

Mr. Harper should support an independent body that can enforce timelines in often protracted negotiations, Prof. Coyle said Monday in an interview Monday. That arm's-length arbiter must also be able to legally rule on impasses arising over the validity of a claim or how much is owed.

“I'm pleased they're going to be working with the Assembly of First Nations,” Prof. Coyle added. “It will have a much better chance of succeeding if first nations have had a real role to play in developing the process.”

Basic funding for settlements is set at about $159-million this fiscal year. An exhaustive Senate committee report this year urged the minority Conservative government to commit at least $250-million annually. The alternative, it warned, is the eruption of more nasty clashes such as the one that pitted native against non-native in Caledonia, Ont., last year over a housing development.

Frustration is once again building in the Southwestern Ontario community as complex talks drag on.

Farther east, a rail blockade in April by a splinter group of Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte paralyzed passenger and freight traffic between Toronto and Montreal. The protest, near Deseronto, Ont., wreaked commuter havoc for just over a day until it was peacefully ended.

Demonstrators blamed the snail's pace of compensation talks and the use of a quarry on disputed land. They have promised more economic disruption.

There are more than 800 unsolved claims in a growing “inventory” of cases across much of Canada, federal officials say. Of those, just 120 have made it to the active negotiation stage.

The number of bottlenecked claims is actually much larger, NDP aboriginal affairs critic Jean Crowder says.

“If they don't have any resources to [start assessing them], they're not counting them in the backlog.”

Mr. Crowder sees the timing of Tuesday's announcement as a tepid bid to defuse the potential for angry confrontation on June 29.

“I think the government has such a poor track record on Indian and northern affairs that it has to put forward something that looks like a win.”

Liberal native affairs critic Anita Neville said the Conservative government has achieved one thing: “They've united aboriginal leadership across the country – against this government.

“It's been a very sad 16 months for aboriginal people,” she said of the gutting of the $5-billion Kelowna accord to lift native living standards.