650 W Georgia St, Suite 3000, PO Box 11635, Vancouver, BC
Year called to bar: 1991
In addition to his broad experience in civil litigation, Doug provides strategic business and legal advice to First Nations, the Crown, and industry about transportation infrastructure and resource development projects. He was a chief negotiator for the Government of Canada in the BC Treaty process (2007–2014). In 2013, the Government of Canada retained Doug to provide advice about Aboriginal participation in the development of oil and natural gas pipelines and related infrastructure in Alberta and British Columbia. His report to the Prime Minister entitled Forging Partnerships, Building Relationships: Aboriginal Canadians and Energy Development (December 2013) outlined strategies for earning trust and fostering an inclusive energy economy. In 2014, the Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development appointed Doug to lead engagement with Aboriginal groups and key stakeholders for the review and reform of the comprehensive land claims policy. His report entitled A New Direction: Advancing Aboriginal and Treaty Rights (April 2015). Doug continues to share his expertise in Aboriginal law—actively writing, speaking, and sharing insights on how the Crown, industry, and Indigenous groups can engage in a constructive dialogue and build a better path forward.