Pact offers help for local aboriginals

The city and provincial government signed an agreement Thursday to improve life for Edmonton’s growing aboriginal population.

The two levels of government decided last year to work together on such priorities as youth leadership, opportunities for women, economic development and promoting safety, Aboriginal Relations Minister Robin Campbell said.

These priorities were developed following consultations with First Nations, Métis and Inuit people in Edmonton, which is thought to have the second-largest number of aboriginal residents in Canada. Edmonton’s aboriginal population was 52,000 in 2006, the latest figures available.

There’s no budget for programs to be created under the memorandum of co-ordination and collaboration. Campbell couldn’t give any examples of specific action that will result from the agreement, saying he hopes for something concrete by fall.

Mayor Stephen Mandel said he’s pleased the province is interested in this issue, adding moves such as improved employment practices and recognizing aboriginal cultural contributions can be taken at little cost.

“I think the most important thing (the memorandum) does is it recognizes the urban aspect of the aboriginal community, for those living in Edmonton or other urban centres, that’s long overdue.”

Debbie Houle, a singer and president of the newly formed Edmonton Aboriginal Business and Professional Association, said the memorandum is important to their members.