Below is an article published by The Prince Albert Daily Herald:

On the eve of a critical roundtable discussion about revenue sharing and land rights between Northern First Nations leaders and Provincial Government ministers, both parties enjoyed a casual meet-and-greet in Prince Albert.

June Draude, Minsister of First Nations, Métis Relations and Northern Affairs, as well as a few other ministers, along with members of both the Prince Albert Grand Council and the Meadow Lake Tribal Council partook in a meal of walleye and potatoes last night at the Little Red River Park.

"This setting gives us an opportunity to show that we're human beings and gives us all the chance to show we have so many common concerns and desires," said Draude.

But the friendly atmosphere might dissipate during today's meetings.

The meeting will center on a ruling by the Supreme of Court of Canada that essentially instructs federal and provincial leaders to consult with First Nations when traditional lands are affected by resource development.

"We will give our presentation. They are going to hear us out; we are going to hear them out," said Chief Ralph Paul of the English River First Nation. "There's going to be a lot of friction. I know that, but we can't back out anymore."

According to Paul, the ruling hasn't been followed completely.

"The lands where all the exploration and exploitation of uranium is occurring is on Dene land," said Paul. "But right now we don't get a thing out of it. It is very frustrating because we don't share in the revenues, share in the profits - nothing."

The meeting is specifically for northern First Nations to discuss their issues to the government, as they have different concerns than their southern neighbours.

Draude said that, overall, this is probably the most important summit she has taken part in since becoming minister in November of last year. She also said the Sask. Party and First Nations throughout Saskatchewan have a shared base.

"The common theme that I have heard from every Chief, whether it's Northern Saskatchewan or Southern Saskatchewan, they all say 'We're not anti-development, we just want to be involved with the development.'"

The meetings will conclude this afternoon. Paul expects them to be more than just meaningless banter.

"I am tired of talking; we are tired of talking," said Paul. "We need action. We need commitment."