Highlights
Stz’uminus First Nation and B.C. entered a reconciliation agreement in March 2022 that sets out commitments to work together on community priorities, future land transfers and economic development, while also establishing funding for future environmental remediation activities in Ladysmith Harbour.
The Wei Wai Kum First Nation and the Province signed an Incremental Treaty Agreement in August 2022 that will transfer 2,276 hectares of territorial lands back to Wei Wai Kum and help boost the Nation’s economic activities.
B.C. and the 3Nations Society (Tahltan, Kaska and Taku River Tlingit) renewed and strengthened the regional partnership under an agreement in September 2022. This agreement provides stable funding for ongoing, community-driven initiatives and builds on previous successes.
The Province purchased ranch lands for Stswecem’c Xget’tem First Nation to be returned to as part of treaty negotiations with the Northern Secwépemc te Qelmúcw (NStQ) and entered an umbrella agreement in December 2022 that will help resolve ranching issues in the NStQ treaty negotiations.
Lake Babine Nation and the Province took the next step in the journey to recognize and implement the Nation’s rights and title through the signing of a new land transfer agreement in January 2023.
Several treaty tables are in Stage 5 negotiations with conclusion of some expected in 1-2 years.
Several tables are in reconciliation negotiations outside of the treaty process and are expected to conclude negotiations between 1-3 years.
Long-term agreements demonstrate a structured and intentional approach towards reconciliation. Increasing the number of signed long-term agreements demonstrates emphasis on being intentional about progress toward reconciliation, focused on achieving self-determination, decision-making and economic independence.
Indicators
- The number of agreements signed: Five co-developed long-term agreements that recognize and support reconciliation, self-determination, decision-making and economic independence.
How are we working together?
The negotiation of long-term agreements is a collaborative process with First Nations that requires ongoing engagement. These negotiations involve close working relationships and the co-development of collaborative solutions.
Together, the Province is working with First Nations and the federal government to create innovative agreements that are flexible and better suited to addressing the needs of individual Nations. This past year, the Province signed several unique and diverse agreements to exemplify this action including with the Lake Babine Nation, Wei Wai Kum Nation, Stz’uminus First Nation and others. Engagement is ongoing with First Nations throughout B.C. through regular meetings to negotiate additional agreements to support reconciliation, self-determination, decision-making and economic independence.
Are there challenges?
New and innovative approaches to achieve long-term reconciliation may require new policy and legislation. This work takes time and requires co-ordination within government, as well as co-operation with negotiation partners. As new agreements demonstrate change and positive steps towards reconciliation, there will be increased demand on provincial capacity. Recruiting and retaining knowledgeable and experienced teams is a challenge in the current labour market.