Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation and Durham Region strengthen ties through new bilateral agreement

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

SCUGOG: The Region of Durham and the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation (MSIFN) have taken another significant step toward reconciliation and partnership, with the signing of a new Bilateral Agreement, on July 30th.

Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer, John Henry, Regional Chief Administrative Officer, Elaine Baxter-Trahair, and MSIFN Chief Kelly LaRocca signed the agreement which formalizes the commitment of both governments to work together, in a spirit of respect, trust, and collaboration.

The five-year agreement, renewable upon mutual consent, sets out a framework for ongoing cooperation and outlines three initial priority areas: ecological protection and restoration; economic development, partnerships, arts and culture; and consultation, accommodation and collaboration.

Ecological protection and restoration will see the Region and MSIFN work together on environmental initiatives, to preserve wetlands, waterways, and natural habitats, while incorporating traditional ecological knowledge into land stewardship. “Our shared lands and waters are the foundation of our future,” said Chief LaRocca. “By combining the Region’s resources with the First Nation’s traditional knowledge, we can ensure environmental stewardship which benefits generations to come.”

Economic development, partnerships, arts and culture will involve exploring opportunities for sustainable growth and investment, while promoting cultural programming and tourism projects which build mutual understanding. “Economic development and cultural exchange go hand in hand,” said Regional Chair Henry. “When we create opportunities which also celebrate our communities’ histories and identities, we strengthen the social and economic fabric of our entire region.”

The third priority area: consultation, accommodation and collaboration, formalizes protocols for regular government-to-government dialogue. This ensures MSIFN is consulted on decisions which affect their rights, interests, and traditional territories, with a focus on respectful accommodation and shared problem-solving. “True collaboration means, ensuring all voices are heard at the table,” said Ms. Baxter-Trahair. “This agreement gives us a clear framework to do just that.”

Regional Chair Henry noted, the agreement represents “one more step in developing and maintaining our long-term relationship with the MSIFN. By working together, we can continue to build vibrant communities [which] prosper, while furthering trust and respect.”

Chief LaRocca emphasized the importance of this milestone, adding, “MSIFN has deep historic and cultural connections to our treaty territories, and we anticipate, this Bilateral Agreement marks a constructive path forward in advancing shared goals for our communities, through strong partnerships and meaningful engagement.”

The full Bilateral Agreement is available, at durham.ca/MSIFNBilateralAgreement.