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

"I would like to congratulate Kitselas First Nation members and their leadership on achieving a yes vote in favour of the Kitselas Agreement in Principle. Community support is important as we move toward a treaty that will bring many benefits to the community and see Kitselas become a full, self-governing treaty nation.

"The next step in treaty negotiations is for the AIP to be signed by all three parties and for Final Agreement negotiations to proceed."

For more information on treaties in British Columbia, visit: www.treaties.gov.bc.ca/

Media Contact:

Robin Platts
Manager of Communications
Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation
250 387-1204
250 213-6451 (cell)