This release was issued under a previous government.

Alberta and Treaty 8 leaders sign historic Protocol Agreement

L-R: Chief Roland Twinn, Deputy Grand Chief Isaac Laboucan-Avirom, Premier Rachel Notley, Indigenous Relations Minister Richard Feehan

The Protocol Agreement will establish mechanisms by which First Nations’ Chiefs and government will meet to determine joint strategies to address priority areas, which may include:

  • Women and children;
  • Consultation, development and the environment;
  • Economy and employment;
  • Municipal Affairs
  • Education;
  • Health; and
  • Infrastructure

“We are making good on our promise to fundamentally transform our relationship with the Indigenous people of Alberta. The Protocol Agreement signed with Treaty 8 First Nations expresses our shared vision and belief that together we can build a better future with the First Nations people of Treaty 8.”

Rachel Notley, Premier of Alberta

“The protocol agreement signed between the First Nations of Treaty 8 in Alberta and the Province of Alberta is a historic step towards greater collaboration and a stronger government-to-government relationship.”

Steve Courtoreille, Grand Chief of Treaty 8

The Premier has committed to meet with the Grand Chief and Treaty 8 Chiefs to discuss the Protocol Agreement and work done to address the priority areas.

“Our relationships depend on establishing common ground. This agreement provides a shared space, a place where the Alberta government and Treaty 8 First Nations can work together on mutual concerns.”

Richard Feehan, Minister of Indigenous Relations

“It is important that we have opportunities to come together and have an open and honest dialogue about what we can do to create better outcomes for the people of Treaty 8 in Alberta and the people of Alberta. The agreement signed today will foster stronger relationships and produce meaningful work on several critical priorities.”

Isaac Laboucan-Avirom, Deputy Grand Chief of Treaty 8