(Utoo Radio - May 2, 2024 - The federal government is set to appoint a commissioner to oversee modern treaty implementation, ensuring accountability and trust in the process.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced the appointment at the second annual meeting of self-governing Indigenous governments in Gatineau, Que.

The government plans to finalize consultations on the role by late June, table legislation, and allocate $10.6 million over four years to support the commissioner's work.

Modern treaties provide Indigenous groups with an alternative to governance under the federal Indian Act, allowing them to create their own laws and policies.

To date, 25 self-government agreements have been signed, involving 43 communities.

The commissioner will conduct independent oversight of Canada's work on modern treaties, ensuring timely and effective implementation. They will also report to Parliament on progress and have the authority to require departments to provide necessary information. The move is seen as an important step forward in renewing Crown-Indigenous relations.