A number of comments received through the Red Tape Challenge process focused on the Aboriginal consultation obligations administered by the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines (MNDM) to meet the constitutional duty to consult.

The established process requires exploration plans and permits that reflect reasonable and appropriate consultation occurring at early exploration stages. This involves a graduated approach to consultation, particularly as activities advance and potential for impacts increases.

The current approach aims to strike an important balance between a predicable process and ensuring meaningful consultation occurs. MNDM will continue to review its regulatory, policy and administrative processes to improve efficiencies in these areas.