Yellowknife (Mar 22/04) - Andy Mitchell's first visit to Yellowknife as Indian Affairs and Northern Development minister was a short one, but it was long enough to get his signature on a document that promises more power for the Northwest Territories.

The three parties that make up the devolution process -- the Aboriginal Summit, and the federal and territorial governments -- signed a framework agreement Thursday morning. The agreement will eventually lead to more control over land and resources for First Nations and the GNWT.

Calling the process a "one-time only" agreement, Mitchell said it was important to make sure the three parties make good on their efforts, even if it takes longer to implement.

"I'll make the commitment that we'll work as expeditiously as possible," Mitchell said at a press conference after signing the agreement.

"Devolution will only happen once, it's important we get it right."

A potential snag to the process is the failure to get the Deh Cho on board, who so far have refused to join the Aboriginal Summit.

Nonetheless, Mitchell said he believes they will sign on when they feel ready.

"I had a meeting with the Deh Cho yesterday," said Mitchell.

"We want to make sure we resolve the issues outstanding. I think there is a commitment to that."

Premier Joe Handley said the sooner a devolution agreement is reached, the more the NWT will be able to cash in on resource developments spreading out across the territories -- the Mackenzie Valley Pipeline in particular.

"We have to set up a government structure that will benefit Joe Blow on the street," said Handley.

"We have to make sure the wealth is well distributed."

An Agreement-in-Principle is expected to be signed sometimes this summer.