B.C. Supports Local Government Involvement In Treaties

NEWS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
2007ARR0021-001197
Sept. 27, 2007

Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation

VANCOUVER – The Province has provided $130,000 to support local government involvement in treaty negotiations, Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Minister Mike de Jong announced today at the annual UBCM Convention.

“We are at an exciting juncture in our province’s history,” de Jong said. “The first modern-day treaty agreement with an urban First Nation, the Tsawwassen, is about to come before the legislature. We are all participants in these historic events, and this funding will assist local governments to participate in treaty negotiations as they reach pivotal stages.”The funding announced today is in addition to the $700,000 granted since 2005 to support local governments and Treaty Advisory Committees (TACs) in engaging in activities related to treaty negotiation. The current funding has already been allocated on a case-by-case basis.

“I applaud the efforts underway throughout the province between local governments and First Nation neighbours to build their own new relationships,” de Jong said. “These efforts benefit all British Columbians by raising the level of co-operation and goodwill across the province.”

The Tsawwassen agreement is the first modern land claim to be reached under the Province’s treaty process. The Huu-ay-aht, a member of the Maa-nulth First Nation treaty group, approved their own final agreement in August. The remaining member Maa-nulth nations will vote this October. Several other First Nations are in negotiations to conclude final agreements, including the Sliammon, Yekooche, Yale, and In-SHUCK-ch First Nations.

The Province is building a new relationship with First Nations built on mutual principles of respect, recognition and reconciliation of Aboriginal rights and title. This funding contributes to enriching the role of local governments in crafting a shared future for all citizens of the Province.

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Media contact:

Deborah Bowman
Communications Director
Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation
250 953-3211
250 213-3489 (cell)