"While the federal government's announcement certainly cannot make everything suddenly right for aboriginal people, it's a step in the right direction," he said. "The territorial government see a lot of good in Canada's Aboriginal Action Plan, but we are still waiting to see how much federal money is actually devoted to these initiatives in the North for Dene, Metis and Inuit."

Highlights of Ottawa's plan -- part of the government long-awaited response to the multi-million- dollar Report of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal People -- include the earmarking of $350 million for community based healing to address the lasting effects of residential schools.

"The government of Canada acknowledged the role it played in residential schools and apologized to the many children and their families who suffered as a result of separation, physical, spiritual and sexual abuse," said Antoine, who himself attended residential schools in Fort Simpson and Fort Providence as a child.

Antoine said he would be discussing the statement of reconciliation and the healing fund face to face with Department of Indian and Northern Affairs Minister Jane Stewart in Yellowknife this week.

Antoine also used the speech to encourage Deh Cho leaders -- who have been deadlocked in negotiations with Ottawa for years now -- to move forward in discussions.

"As a MLA, I encourage you to grab ahold of the current momentum and decided upon a process that meets your interests," he said. "There is much goodwill at the moment. The federal government is eager to show it has changed its way. The highest court of the country has affirmed and defined aboriginal title. Aboriginal nations are nearing the settlement of self-government agreements."

"It's time for the Deh Cho to do something."