Thank you.
Mr. Chair, the 2020 response to the minister's round table on Parks Canada included a commitment to develop a framework to support indigenous stewardship in Parks Canada places through processes of collaboration and dialogue with indigenous peoples, in recognition of the important roles and responsibilities of indigenous peoples in protecting and conserving land, water and ice.
We have undertaken preliminary policy work to advance indigenous stewardship across Parks Canada-administered places, with an approach that will strengthen reconnections to the land, water and ice; empower indigenous voices; support indigenous leadership and self-determination; respect indigenous rights and responsibilities, as well as indigenous knowledge and knowledge systems; and build a greener and more equitable future for future generations.