Federal Court - Christian Aboriginal Infrastructure Developments ...

Page: 47
[192] Mr. Sewell testified about the Department’s interest in developing a long-term forest policy
for Yukon. He was most interested in seeing the participation of the YTG in the development of that
policy since in light of the pending devolution of control over the forest resources, YTG would be
involved in the implementation of a new forest policy.
[193] Mr. Sewell testified about the process that the Department was developing relative to a new
2010 FC 495 (CanLII)
long-term forest policy and the need for consultation with the community, including the YTG, First
Nations and the general public. He spoke about a number of discussion papers and proposals that
were developed by the Department. These documents were addressed by a number of witnesses for
the Defendant.
[194] Mr. Sewell interacted with representatives of the Plaintiffs, both in meetings and by way of
correspondence. He testified that he found the Plaintiffs’ representatives to be honest and
honourable people.
[195] Mr. Sewell testified that when he was the RDG, settlement of outstanding land claims on
behalf of First Nations in Yukon was not a condition for the introduction of a long-term forest
policy.