|
|
|
|
Consultation
Why Consultation! Consultation acknowledges and gives recognition to Indigenous groups who's traditional lands encompass current resource industry tenures. Developing and maintaining effective communications and associated business relationships with local aboriginal communities is beneficial for the resource industry. Effective working relations support more timely access to land and greater involvement with local labor, contractors and overall shared benefits. In contrast, failure to develop productive, two-way communication processes can result in misunderstandings, disagreements, or unresolved opposing views which ultimately cost money. Recent court interpretations of resource development decisions have changed the expectations and roles for industry, governments and affected communities, thus supporting a growing need for effective working relationships among all parties.
How does it work? Companies strive to manage many risks: economic, legal, safety, environmental, operational and those affecting corporate reputation. Understanding the interests of aboriginal communities, along with the development and implementation of strategies to address their unique concerns, is a key part of responsible risk management. The continuing evolution of the case law regarding aboriginal rights, along with the corresponding changes in regulatory requirements for consultation, adds to the level of risk and uncertainty. Legal decisions, policy changes and associated regulatory changes are evolving and industry’s challenge is to adapt industry practices accordingly. Building mutually beneficial and effective relations with aboriginal communities makes good business sense, both in the short-term for current business needs, and in the long-term for enduring projects and activities. It is imperative that management be fully aware of the risks associated with failure to meaningfully consult, when required. Some see it is just the financial compensation that is the benefit, but more deeply it is the communication and contact that achieves the purpose. When people feel heard they are more willing to listen, when people hear, they can understand and from there a relationship can grow. Although some consultation accommodation relationships end with the financial accommodation, it is a beginning to something that is opportunity for more than that.
|
|
Contact Information
Powered by
|
