Proposed Indigenous Ministerial Arrangements Regulations

Participate in the regulatory development process

If you're interested in participating in an engagement session or learning more about the proposed Indigenous Ministerial Arrangements Regulations (IMARs) through our virtual webinars; please send an email to: imar-rama@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca.

The Canadian Energy Regulator Act (CERA) provides the possibility of having Indigenous ministerial arrangements between the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources and Indigenous governing bodies^{Footnote 1} under sections 77 and 78.

If regulations are made and a ministerial arrangement with Indigenous governing bodies is reached; powers, duties or functions with respect to matters regulated under the CERA could be performed by Indigenous governing bodies. This could include having a role in the regulatory process for the Canada Energy Regulator’s (CER) regulated infrastructure such as pipelines and powerlines within federal jurisdiction, which might otherwise be performed by the CER. The proposed Indigenous Ministerial Arrangements Regulations (IMARs) may further support Canada’s commitment towards reconciliation and renewing relationships with Indigenous Peoples, based on recognition of rights, respect, cooperation, and partnership.

Ultimate outcomes

• Enhance Canada’s regulatory efficiency by including Indigenous governing bodies in a meaningful way throughout the project lifecycle;
• Continue to improve upon authentic and meaningful engagement led by NRCan;
• Fulfilling Canada’s commitments in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act Action Plan by creating opportunities to work in consultation and cooperation with First Nation, Métis, and Inuit communities, governments and organizations while developing the proposed IMARs; and
• Seek to leverage and align with partner organizations by exploring emerging opportunities to enhance Indigenous governing bodies' participation in natural resources decision-making processes.

Learn more about our engagement framework

Participate in the phases of engagement

Explore our principles and protocols

Related links

• Cabinet Directive on Regulation
• Canadian Energy Regulator Act
• Forward Regulatory Plan 2024 to 2026
• Minister of Natural Resources Mandate Letter (2021)
• United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act Action Plan

Contact us

For additional information on the proposed IMARs or to submit comments in writing, please send an email to Indigenous Ministerial Arrangements Regulations at: imar-rama@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca.