Council of Elders and Youth

The Council of Elders and Youth is an advisory body to NWMO management. It provides counsel on the application of Indigenous Knowledge in the implementation of Adaptive Phased Management. In addition, the Council of Elders and Youth provides advice on issues that could enhance the development and maintenance of good relations with Indigenous communities.

Overview

The NWMO recognizes that Indigenous Knowledge Holders carry the wisdom that connected their peoples to all creation since the Creator placed them here on Turtle Island. The NWMO also acknowledges that Knowledge Holders possess an understanding of Mother Earth that constitutes traditional science, which enabled their ancestors to live in harmony with nature. The NWMO further respects that Knowledge Holders are the custodians of traditions, customs and values of their respective societies, and form a link between the past and the future.

There are many teachings of the Indigenous peoples here on Mother Earth. One of these teachings speaks of the Peoples of Mother Earth and how they have all been given different gifts and tasks to do. The peoples must work together in balance like the four legs of a table to work effectively here on Earth.

Knowledge Holders have much traditional knowledge to share with others. One of their roles is in aiding in decision-making based on this ancient knowledge. The NWMO has been honoured to have received the counsel of Knowledge Holders over the past several years. We seek to enhance this relationship of mutual support and respect as we continue to implement our mandate in harmony with the traditional teachings of Indigenous peoples.

The NWMO first established the Council of Elders and Youth in July 2012.

It grew from the Elders Forum, a previous advisory group that was in place between 2005 and 2012. Over the course of 2011 and 2012, a new Terms of Reference for the Council of Elders and Youth was developed.

A new Council of Elders and Youth was established in 2025 following selection of a site for Canada’s first deep geological repository. It will continue to provide advice on this next phase of the NWMO’s work.

We thank everyone who served on these councils for their years of advice and thoughtful guidance to the NWMO.

Mission statement:

The Council of Elders and Youth will provide advice to the NWMO that will help protect and preserve all creation: air, land, fire, water, plants, medicines, animals and humankind — guided by the seven universal teachings of love, trust, sharing, honesty, humility, respect and wisdom.

Terms of Reference:

Members of the Council of Elders and Youth (July 2012-present)

Members of the Council of Elders and Youth are not expected to represent the views or positions of any Aboriginal organization or community. Members are independent Elders and youth representing their own perspectives. The NWMO does not expect members of the Council of Elders and Youth to represent, or to speak on behalf of, the NWMO.