Media Advisory – National Forum in Ottawa to Discuss First Nations, Resources and Our Energy Future

Media Advisory – National Forum in Ottawa to Discuss First Nations, Resources and Our Energy Future

OTTAWA, March 21, 2017  – The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is convening a National Energy Forum titled “Inclusive Prosperity in Our Energy Future” taking place March 22-23 at the Delta City Center in Ottawa, ON. Delegates will gather to discuss issues relating to the future of clean energy and sustainable practices and models; international markets and the investment environment; and First Nations involvement in the energy and resource development sector.

With new approaches to development and regulation underway, First Nations have many opportunities to build their economies and strengthen their Nations based on rights, Treaties, title and energy democracy. The Forum is an opportunity for First Nations to examine key issues and discuss the energy landscape.  Discussions will focus on opportunities for First Nations across the energy spectrum, and finding ways to advance First Nation roles in energy decision making.

AFN National Chief Perry Bellegarde will open the conference with an address beginning at approximately 8:40 a.m. on Wednesday, March 22. Grand Chief Ed John of the First Nations Summit in B.C. will speak to Indigenous Rights in Canada’s Energy Future. Gary Merasty, Co-Chair, NEB Modernization Expert Panel will speak about the National Energy Board Modernization on Wednesday, March 22. David Suzuki, Co-Founder of the David Suzuki Foundation, will give a Keynote Address on energy transition on Thursday, March 23 and The Honourable Jim Carr, federal Minister of Natural Resources, will speak at Noon on Thursday, March 23.

There will be a number of panels on current, critical issues. A detailed agenda is available on the AFN website at: http://www.afn.ca/uploads/files/energy_forum_agenda-v7.pdf

Media can register in advance by emailing the AFN contact listed below, and can register on-site.

The Assembly of First Nation is the national organization representing First Nation citizens in Canada. Follow AFN on Twitter @AFN_Updates #AFNenergyforum

For further information: Alain Garon, AFN Bilingual Communications Officer, 613-292-0857, or agaron@afn.ca