Derek Neary
Northern News Services

FORT LIARD (Nov 06/98) - It's a matter of appreciating each other's goals.

In an effort to come to a better understanding of the respective needs of those involved in the forestry, oil and gas-development industries in Fort Liard, a two-day conference was held in the community last week.

By the end of the forum, a resolution to form a working group involving government, industry and the band was passed, according to Barb Brown, executive manager of the NWT Community Mobilization Partnership and Job Development Strategy, a non-government, non-profit agency.

"This is a very important first step," said Brown. "Often, we don't spend enough times looking at practical solutions or the next step."

The Acho Dene Koe, who hosted the conference, used the forum as a basis to present their desire to maximize their participation in business and employment, Brown said.

"A strong message was they're committed to change and getting ahead, but they want to participate as equal partners in the global economy," she said.

Chief Harry Deneron emphasized that he wanted to make use of the area's resources, especially in light of government cutbacks, according to Brown.

Although he admitted change will not occur overnight, he said communication and a positive attitude are essential.

Representatives from many sectors of the oil and gas industry, such as Calgary's Paramount Resources, Canadian Forestry and Oil, Chevron Canada, Suncor Energy and Ranger Oil were present. There were also delegates from service industries, government officials from Ottawa and the NWT, members of the Mackenzie Valley Environmental Impact Review Working Group and from NWT Community Mobilization.

"We had very good representation," said Brown, adding that the Liard Valley band and DIAND thought it would be a good opportunity to bring all the key partners together.

"Basically, the purpose was for industry and communities to present information in a round-table forum...and to share information about what has worked well and what needs improvement."

The Nahanni Butte and Trout Lake bands were invited to attend, but no representatives were present. Industry representatives expressed concern over traditional overlap areas and a resolution to deal with negotiating with neighbouring communities, according to Brown.

Deneron indicated that he had twice offered a partnership to the Nahanni Butte band, according to Topsy Cockney, community liaison co-ordinator for NWT Community Mobilization.

He proceeded to say that once and for all the people of Fort Liard can do what is best for their community, rather than wait for others, Cockney said.

Industry reps also requested certainty in regards to time lines for regulatory and permitting processes. As well, they inquired about how they could assist in community and youth development, Brown said.