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Talisman recognizes and respects the diverse cultures and perspectives of communities, including those of indigenous peoples. We work with local communities affected by our operations to better understand each other’s culture so that we can design and implement community relations activities that reflect mutual interests. We also encourage participation of indigenous peoples in our activities through business and employment opportunities.
Talisman has formalized Aboriginal Relations Guidelines (Guidelines) that guide our relations with all aboriginal communities across North America. The Guidelines are consistent with our policies and procedures including the PBCE and are available to all employees on our internal website. These Guidelines also apply to our principal contractors.
Talisman consults with aboriginal communities in North America to develop an understanding of mutual interests and maintain a positive working relationship. We consider the unique culture of each community when designing and carrying out our activities. We collaborate with industry peers and all levels of government to work effectively with aboriginal communities. We encourage all co-venturers to support aboriginal education, training and economic development programs.
In 2004, the Supreme Court of Canada released unanimous decisions on two significant cases (Taku River and Haida) concerning expectations of Canadian business to consult with First Nations communities. The decisions emphasize legislative, regulatory and good neighbour obligations to consult with aboriginal people – efforts we are already highly committed to.
Advance consultation with First Nation communities regarding key seismic, well site and access road locations and pipeline construction has helped the Company gain needed approvals on a number of key Canadian projects. For example, thanks to advance consultation, a seismic program planned by the Company in a sensitive area in British Columbia was approved by the Halfway First Nation.
In 2004, Talisman’s Aboriginal Community Investment Fund (Fund) invested approximately $216,000 in support of 84 projects and initiatives in aboriginal communities throughout our operating areas. Investment through the Fund focused on youth, education and capacity building in aboriginal communities and included approximately $98,000 in scholarships, bursaries and support for student centres, helping aboriginal students succeed in their studies. In 2004, administration of the Fund was strengthened through the development of a request for feedback process on investments made by the Company.
In 2004, 33 Talisman employees participated in aboriginal cross-cultural awareness courses. Of those, 29 employees participated in a three-day introductory course, two employees participated in a three-day cultural campout hosted by the Aseniwuche Winewak Nation in Grande Cache, Alberta, and two others participated in a one-day event. These events further strengthened key relationships with the community and gave employees a broader understanding of key aboriginal issues.
Talisman values the benefits of a diversified workforce and we give fair consideration for employment and contract opportunities to aboriginal individuals and businesses. In 2004, Talisman drafted prequalification standards for local and aboriginal contractors to help service providers understand the Company’s safety and performance requirements. The Company cooperatively consults with, provides feedback to and inspects equipment for aboriginal contractors to help them achieve equal access to economic opportunities associated with our activities.
“When I first applied for the scholarship... I was a little skeptical about my chances of receiving a significant award... Needless to say, I was pleasantly surprised to receive this fantastic award of $2,000. From now on, I will no longer be so doubtful of my abilities, and I will not constantly compare myself to others.” Lyndsay Vanderveer, National Aboriginal Achievement Foundation scholarship recipient.