Derek Neary
Northern News Services
After three days of discussions, the concept was endorsed by delegates at a recent economic development workshop in Fort Simpson. The recommendation will go before Deh Cho First Nations leaders who meet in Fort Providence Tuesday.
 Fort Simpson's Nick Sibbeston spoke during a gathering of Deh Cho delegates who want to form an economic development working group. Sibbeston said it's vital to have experienced people working on development. - Derek Neary/NNSL photo |
The economic corporation, with representation from each community in the region, would negotiate potential business deals and identify partnerships and investments for the consideration of Deh Cho aboriginal leaders.
Nick Sibbeston, a bed and breakfast owner in Fort Simpson, said it's vital to have efficient and experienced people leading the corporation.
"We can mess it up if we don't get the right people," he said.
Most business-minded people don't want anything to do with politics, he said.
"They're very independent-minded," he said. "They just want to make a decision and make money."
The economic corporation is to report to DCFN leadership semi-annually and is to make decisions based on a five-year business plan and budget approved by DCFN leadership at the winter assembly.
Keeping politics from constantly hindering business deals will be a key to success, according to Liidlii Kue delegate Dennis Nelner.
"One of the main themes at the workshop was that we have to have a level of trust," he said. "It all has to be under an operational plan ... we can operate independently of politics, but at the same time they can feel secure that we're not running amok, going headlong into development at the expense of the people, the culture, the environment."
For funding, Nelner suggested that the Deh Cho First Nations will have to provide some resources and GNWT initiatives can be tapped into as well.
"All you need is some seed money, finance the rest and then business takes off," said Nelner.
Equal ownership among the communities is also being advocated. Profits would be divided equally to help the smaller communities.
"The small communities are lacking in human resources and funding. This group will find that for them," Tthek'ehdeli Chief Stan Sanguez said.
Another principle put forth is to balance profit-making with environmental protection and the well-being of residents.
"Sure it's nice to make a lot of money. It's a money economy ... but cultural activities are our lifeline," said Sanguez.
