In July 2013 the Ontario Waterpower Association (OWA) and Chiefs of Ontario (COO) delivered a workshop at the office of Borden Ladner Gervais in Toronto that was focused on understanding Impact Benefit Agreements (IBA) and industry and First Nation relationships. According to reports from the OWA, the two day training session was a tremendous success. Over sixty-five (65) industry, First Nation and government representatives were in attendance. The event was another joint initiative of the OWA/COO, building upon the Memorandum of Understanding signed by the two organizations in 2010.
The workshop was led by Mr. Allen Edzerza, a senior negotiator for the past 25 years. Mr. Edzerza provided the audience with not only an overview of the IBA Community Toolkit Negotiation and Implementation of Impact Benefit Agreements, but also with his perspectives and insights regarding strategies and negotiations.
On the second day of the workshop, delegates heard from legal, industry and First Nation panels that offered their unique perspectives regarding First Nation and Industry business relationships. The day concluded with a panel comprised of government representatives who shared their insights not only regarding industry and First Nation relationships but also what was on the horizon for the energy sector.
Copies of the workshop presentations can be found on the OWA website at www.owa.ca. For more information about the IBA Community Toolkit – “Negotiation and Implementation of Impact Benefit Agreements”, commissioned by the Gordon Foundation, visit www.ibacommunitytoolkit.ca.