In February 2001, Robert Nault, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development authorized Mr. Thomas Molloy to begin long-term processes to address issues of asserted Aboriginal rights and Treaty rights. The scope of Mr. Molloy’s mandate varies:

• In Nova Scotia, he is authorized to begin Framework Agreement negotiations in a tripartite process involving the Province of Nova Scotia and the Mi’kmaq; and
• In New Brunswick, Quebec and Prince Edward Island, he is authorized to begin exploratory discussions with the Mi’kmaq and Maliseet and interested provincial governments.

Mr. Molloy is also responsible for discussions "with Aboriginal and provincial partners on the possible creation of Treaty Commission(s) in the spirit of the Peace and Friendship Treaties and the continuing importance of the treaty relationship"

While a treaty commission would not necessarily be part of the long-term negotiation processes, Mr. Molloy has been tasked with discussing whether our Aboriginal and provincial partners see any benefits to the creation of a body or office that could provide a neutral forum to discuss important treaty issues and the treaty relationship.