The Labrador Inuit Agreement: An Overview

The Labrador Inuit Agreement is a historic agreement signed in 2005 between the Government of Canada, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Inuit of Labrador. The agreement is also referred to as the Nunatsiavut Agreement or the Labrador Inuit Land Claims Agreement.

The agreement recognizes the Inuit of Labrador as the aboriginal people of the region and grants them self-government rights over their lands and resources. It also provides for the creation of Nunatsiavut, a self-governing Inuit region within Newfoundland and Labrador, consisting of five communities: Nain, Hopedale, Postville, Makkovik, and Rigolet.

The agreement also includes provisions for the transfer of title to approximately 72,520 square kilometers of land, including the 9,500 square kilometers of the Torngat Mountains National Park. The Inuit of Labrador can also benefit from the use and management of natural resources in the area, including timber, water, and minerals.

The agreement also addresses various issues, including cultural preservation, language, education, and health care. It recognizes the importance of preserving Inuit culture and language and ensures that traditional knowledge and practices are integrated into decision-making processes.

The Labrador Inuit Agreement also includes provisions for financial compensation to the Inuit of Labrador for past infringements of their rights, including losses related to land and resources. The agreement also provides for ongoing financial support to the Nunatsiavut Government to support self-government and economic development in the region.

In conclusion, the Labrador Inuit Agreement is a significant milestone in the history of Indigenous land claims and self-government in Canada. It recognizes the rights of the Inuit of Labrador to self-determination and control over their lands and resources. The agreement is an excellent example of how modern treaties can address the legacy of colonialism and support reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.