Reconciliation agreement between BC and Snuneymuxw First Nation

A reconciliation agreement between British Columbia and the Snuneymuxw First Nation will bring economic benefits to the Snuneymuxw, while increasing certainty for business in the Nanaimo region, reads a press release issued March 27. The agreement creates economic opportunities for the Snuneymuxw on Vancouver Island through the transfer of three land parcels, totaling 877 hectares (2,100 acres), in the Mount Benson area. These will provide forestry-related opportunities that can be used to generate revenue and to create employment for Snuneymuxw members. The agreement also transfers to Snuneymuxw a culturally-significant property in Departure Bay. “This agreement will provide a foundation for much needed economic and employment opportunities for our members and nation,” said Chief Douglas White III. “It builds on many years of effort by our Elders, leaders, and members who have stood in a strong and principled manner in trying to forge a better future for our children and youth. While there remains much hard work to be done, we are hopeful that we have now started on a path that will move all of us closer to that essential goal.” The reconciliation agreement includes an engagement protocol that creates a forum to exchange information on the Douglas Treaty; to discuss requirements to establish an efficient framework for land-use referrals; and to start a dialogue on the future use and management of the Nanaimo River Estuary. The Snuneymuxw First Nation’s current operating permit for Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park will be extended by two years, allowing BC Parks and Snuneymuxw to discuss possible longer-term management arrangements. The agreement also will allow Snuneymuxw to maintain a presence on a culturally-significant island and to create economic opportunities for its members. Snuneymuxw First Nation is a large Hul’q’umi’num-speaking, Coast Salish Nation located in and around Nanaimo and Gabriola Island and has more than 1,700 members, one of the largest First Nations populations in B.C.