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A P R I L 2021 ME S S E NG E R
M e s s a g e f r o m t h e T r e a s u r e r
Political Update: Provincial Discussions Hon. Minister of Indigenous Relations:
Over the past few months, members of the MSGC Board including the MSGC Executive have had discussions with the Minister of Indigenous Relations and Ministry staff. The President has provided an overview of these discussions in his report. At this time, Bill 57 is currently being debated in the Legislature with debate expected to resume sometime the week of May 03, 2021. Alberta Indigenous Opportunities Corporation (AIOC) – On November 26, 2019, the “Alberta Indigenous Opportunities Corporation Act” received royal assent and was proclaimed. The AIOC was established to facilitate and backstop up to $1 billion in investment by Indigenous communities in natural resource projects and related infrastructure. This initiative supports Indigenous communities to directly invest in medium-to-large scale projects, thus creating economic benefits. Many of the Settlements are currently exploring various economic ventures anddetermining their options for investment. The AIOC loan guarantee is one option which is being pursued by some communities. Ministry of Justice & Solicitor General: Over the past while, Settlement Councillors and MSGC Executive members have participated in meetings with representatives from the Ministry of Justice and Solicitor General. Discussions have taken place regarding policing issues as well as the Police Act (Dec. 3/20, Dec.18/20, Jan. 14/21). Representatives have been very vocal in expressing concerns as well as providing possible solutions to deal with the various issues in the communities. As part of establishing safe communities, some Settlements are doing preliminary work to develop local Community Safety Bylaws. Last fall, some communities were able to obtain member feedback on proposed bylaws. It was very beneficial to have RCMP Officers and Legal Counsel attend these sessions which were very informative and provided an opportunity for Settlement members to ask questions and obtain procedural clarity. Policing/RAPID (Rural Alberta Provincial Integrated Defence) Force – Last fall 2020, MSGC was informed that as a result of increased crime in rural areas, the Province would be extending authority levels to Sheriffs and Fish & Wildlife Officers. This initiative was to be rolled out in three phases.
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