The Supreme Court of Canada determined in 2005 that all provinces and territories have a legal duty to consult with First Nations where provincial land management and resource development decisions may adversely impact constitutional rights.

Alberta was one of the first provinces to implement a First Nations consultation policy. The Government of Alberta's First Nations Consultation Policy on Land Management and Resource Development was approved in 2005 and ensures resource development is done in a way that respects Treaty rights, while supporting a confident investment environment for industry. Associated Guidelines on how to implement the Policy were released in 2006 and updated in 2007.

Consultation Policy Review 
Led by Aboriginal Relations, the Government of Alberta is currently undergoing a scheduled review of the Consultation Policy. The review process included more than a year spent gathering important input from First Nations, industry and municipalities. This comprehensive feedback process ensures that all parties had the opportunity to provide their views, and that we are working together to continue strengthening the Consultation process.  It is expected that the revised Consultation Policy will be released in 2012.