Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Minister Ida Chong and Snaw-naw-as (Nanoose) Nation Chief David Bob signed an incremental treaty agreement (ITA) today that enables Snaw-naw-as to acquire two land parcels within the next three years.

The land parcels are located within their traditional territory and the Regional District of Nanaimo. One land parcel is 3 hectares and the second parcel is 3.4 hectares in size. These lands will be transferred in fee simple within three years and will be subject to provincial and federal laws. The lands will also be subject to local government zoning and taxation.

ITAs are pre-treaty agreements that provide economic opportunities, promote constructive planning opportunities and advance treaty related benefits for First Nations early in treaty negotiations.

The Snaw-naw-as ITA provides economic opportunities for Snaw-naw-as. This agreement also represents a significant step forward in building a strong and constructive relationship with local governments.

Quotes:

Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Ida Chong -

"Snaw-naw-as Nation is working diligently to develop jobs and other economic opportunities that will contribute to a prosperous future for its citizens and the surrounding region. We are pleased to be able to support their efforts to provide a better future for their children and their children's children."

Snaw-naw-as Nation Chief David Bob -

"I am honoured to sign this Snaw-naw-as Incremental Treaty Agreement on behalf of the Snaw-naw-as citizens. Economic development initiatives are key to our Nations' success in our long-term goals and objectives. As with all communities - we are committed to providing a better way of life for our children, grandchildren and those yet to be born. The obstructions we have faced under the Indian Act will come to a close. This Incremental Treaty Agreement gives us an opportunity to own land and develop it with partners - in the near future."

Quick Facts:

• Snaw-naw-as citizens are party to the historic Douglas Treaties that were signed between 1850 and 1854.

• The Snaw-naw-as Nation is currently in the final stages of agreement-in-principle negotiations; stage four of the six-stage BC treaty process.

• The Snaw-naw-as Nation is located on the east coast of Vancouver Island, adjacent to Lantzville, approximately 10 kilometres north of Nanaimo.

• Snaw-naw-as has one reserve totalling approximately 63 hectares.

• There are approximately 226 Snaw-naw-as citizens.

• Previously, B.C. had five other Incremental Treaty Agreements in place with the Tla-o-qui-aht, Klahoose, Nazko, Kitsumkalum and Kitselas First Nations.

Learn More:

For more information on Incremental Treaty Agreements, visit: www.treaties.gov.bc.ca/itas.html
www.gov.bc.ca/arr.

For more information about the BC Treaty Commission, visit: http://www.bctreaty.net/

Media Contacts:

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

Yvon Gesinghaus
Te'mexw Treaty Coordinator
Te'mexw Treaty Association
250 360-2202
250 889-9877 (cell)