Thank you, Mr. Chair.
Thank you both for being here today.
Looking at the letter of intent, and your news release between the Mining Association of Canada and AFN, and years of experience, it's obvious you have modelled in many ways this idea of collaboration and working with first nations people in terms of trying to find some common ground, if we can use that term. I'm referring to your news release where you talk about collaborating and months of discussion between the two organizations. Chief Fontaine indicates that first nations and the mining community are natural partners and goes on to talk about true collaboration. You've indicated that it's the largest private sector employer of aboriginal people. I think we all agree around this table that to advance economic opportunities for first nations people it's certainly win-win for everybody involved.
I would like to ask a question on your first point in your letter of intent, where it refers to the fact that you're jointly advocating to the federal government for a clear, effective, appropriate federal consultation policy. At this committee we've discussed the issue of consultation many times. My question comes down to the idea of developing a policy for consistency as to what consultation is.
Is it realistic that the federal government, or any other organization for that matter, will get unanimity in terms of agreeing on what constitutes adequate consultation? I would be interested in your thoughts. As I said earlier, you've obviously done something right, and it's working. I'm not sure if you would call it consultation or collaboration or what statement you would like to make on that.
Thank you.