Canadian Water Network (CWN) is pleased to announce its commitment to the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business’ (CCIB) Partnership Accreditation in Indigenous Relations (PAIR) program.

The PAIR program, established in 2001, is a nationally recognized framework that supports companies and organizations in improving their Indigenous relations practices. It includes an online management and reporting tool, as well as a third-party certification process that evaluates corporate performance in indigenous relations and engagement.

Through the PAIR program, CWN will report on measurable outcomes and initiatives across four key performance areas:

1. Leadership actions.
2. Employment.
3. Business development.
4. Community relations (engagement and support).

By engaging with the PAIR framework, CWN is not only holding itself accountable to measurable standards in Indigenous relations but also actively working to build trust, foster respectful partnerships, and amplify Indigenous voices in water-related decision-making.

“Our commitment to the PAIR program reflects CWN’s deepening dedication to reconciliation and meaningful engagement with Indigenous peoples,” says Nicola Crawhall, CEO of CWN. “Starting with our own learning and awareness of Canada’s colonial history and present-day challenges and opportunities facing Indigenous peoples, CWN will integrate Indigenous perspectives into our programs and our governance and establish collaborative strategic Indigenous partners.”

This commitment aligns with CWN’s 2024-2029 strategic plan, which emphasizes the integration of Indigenous content, knowledge, and perspectives across all program areas. CWN plans to:

• Develop and adopt an Indigenous relations policy.
• Undertake Indigenous cultural awareness raising training.
• Establish an Indigenous Community of Interest to advise CWN on ways and approaches to integrate Indigenous content, knowledge, and perspectives into CWN’s activities.
• Become accredited under the PAIR program, ultimately resulting in the development and implementation of an Indigenous Relations Action Plan.
• Seek Indigenous representation on CWN’s Board of Directors.

By joining the PAIR program, CWN will benefit from CCIB’s guidance in building trust and fostering collaborative relationships with Indigenous strategic partners, communities, and networks.