Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Minister Ida Chong recognized government's success in signing 18 non-treaty agreements with First Nations, surpassing goals set out in the BC Jobs Plan.

New revenue-sharing agreements ensure 14 member bands of the Nlaka'pamux Nation will benefit from the expansion of the Highland Valley Copper Mine (HVC).

Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Minister Ida Chong released the following statement in response to Wednesday's yes vote by Kitsumkalum First Nation members regarding the ratification of their Agreement in Principle (AIP):

A new agreement will create economic opportunities for the Kaska Dena First Nations in northern B.C. in advance of a treaty.

A new agreement between the B.C. government and the Ktunaxa Nation Council will support economic development and job creation in the West Kootenay region and provide benefits to the Ktunaxa Nation in advance of a treaty.

The Honourable Ida Chong, Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation for the Province of British Columbia amd the leaders of the five Saanich Nations announced the successful conclusion of the Goldstream Specific Claim.

I am writing you today to express my disappointment about a letter to the editor published Wednesday, March 27, in your online edition.