New Relationship

The Government of British Columbia is leading the nation in developing a New Relationship with First Nations and Aboriginal people. Guided by principles of trust, and by recognition and respect of First Nations' rights and title, we are building a stronger and healthier relationship between government and Aboriginal people. By working together, we will bring tangible social and economic benefits to Aboriginal people across the Province and narrow the gap between Aboriginal people and other British Columbians.

The Ministry of Employment and Income Assistance will continue working with the Aboriginal community and agencies like the First Nations Social Development Society and Aboriginal Human Resource Development Agreement holders to support their provision of employment programming to Aboriginal persons, and to ensure that Ministry policy and program development take into account the unique needs of Aboriginal people and their communities. The Ministry will also continue to work with the Aboriginal community to implement the Aboriginal Self-Identifier initiative that will allow clients to voluntarily indicate their Aboriginal status as a basis for designing services and programs that better meet their needs. The Ministry will be mapping personal supports programs and services delivered or funded by the provincial, federal and First Nations governments and Aboriginal organizations to determine options for integration.