Engaging with the local aboriginal group, whether a First Nations, Inuit, or Métis, is an important step for any proponent of a northern project. The north of Canada is a patchwork of overlapping and interlaced jurisdictions and territories. Each of the three Territories has its own unique structure, and with that structure its own unique process. Much of the regulatory landscape in the North was created directly in response to attempts by Canada and the Territorial governments to deal with issues relating to the settling of outstanding land claims. For those thinking of pursuing some of the many opportunities in the North, one of the first thoughts should be regarding aboriginal issues - both the legal obligations, and the practical realities.
