Thank you very much, Mr. Chair.
I would also like to thank committee members for inviting me to appear here this morning.
We want to start by explaining the context and roles of the policies and processes in place to manage aboriginal rights, treaty rights and the historic grievances of first nations peoples, and to discuss with you the way in which these policies and processes help us balance the rights and interests of aboriginal peoples with those of Canadian citizens. So we are here to provide you with some explanations, but particularly to answer your questions on comprehensive claims, aboriginal self-government and the implementation of these agreements. In addition, at the committee's request, we will deal with the issue of specific claims.
Effective policies and processes for managing aboriginal rights and treaty rights as well as the historic grievances of first nations peoples are essential if the Canadian federation is to function harmoniously.