Advancing Amerindian land rights a top priority

Advancing Amerindian land rights is a top priority, said Amerindian Affairs Minister, Pauline Sukhai, who pointed out that significant strides have already been made in this area.

She made the remarks while addressing toshaos and other Amerindian leaders during the opening of the National Toshaos Council Conference at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre on Monday.

“Land rights have always been a priority for the People’s Progressive Party Civic Government. While some unscrupulous persons may attempt to mislead the indigenous population on this issue, I remind you that both NGOs [Non-Governmental Organisations] and NDC [Neighbourhood Democratic Councils] are represented on the oversight committee for the land titling and the LCDS [Low Carbon Development Strategy] 2030 multi-stakeholder committee. Our government continues to actively engage the land titling and demarcation processes,” the minister said.

Sukhai also made reference to the Amerindian Act of 2006, which is currently being reviewed, noting that the process has been a smooth one.

The Act aims to provide for the recognition and protection of the collective rights of Amerindian villages and communities, including the issuing of land.

“The review process has been inclusive and transparent… with free and fair consent and broad stakeholder engagements,” she noted.

Minister Sukhai also noted that the government has been actively involved in including Amerindians as equal partners in climate change efforts.