AWARD: Suncor receives aboriginal relations certification

CALGARY – Suncor Energy has been awarded a Silver level certificate for Progressive Aboriginal Relations (PAR) from the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business (CCAB).

PAR is the only certification program of its kind, focusing on aboriginal relations best practices. The process leading up to the award included aboriginal stakeholder reviews and an independent assessment in the areas of employment, business development, community investment, and community engagement.

Suncor says it demonstrates strong commitment to aboriginal benefits of industry development in several ways. It has a dedicated aboriginal relations team that works closely with local communities guided by a written Canadian aboriginal relations policy that is available in both Cree and Dene audio files. In 2013, the company spent more than $431 million with aboriginal businesses bringing the total spend to almost $2.5 billion since 1999. It maintains relationships with over 150 native groups across Canada. Last year, the Suncor Energy Foundation (SEF) helped launch the Indspire Institute, a new online meeting place and resource for those engaged in aboriginal education in the K-12 grades.

In addition, Suncor CEO and president, Steve Williams, co-chairs the Indspire Building Brighter Futures campaign in support of bursaries and scholarships for indigenous students across Canada.

"The Silver level designation recognizes our solid performance," said Williams. "It also points to areas where we know we can improve. One of the benefits of being in the PAR community is that we can make these improvements while collaborating with our peers and the CCAB."

Read Suncor's Canadian Aboriginal Relations Policy by clicking here.