The Government of British Columbia has issued a temporary order under Section 7 of the Environment and Land Use Act to defer decisions on permits and permit amendments related to existing coal tenures in the Klappan until December 1, 2014.

In September 2013, the Tahltan Nation and the government initiated the Klappan Strategic Initiative to develop a shared vision for land and resource use in the Klappan.

In December 2013, government issued the Klappan Coal Licence Deferral Area Order, deferring decisions on any new coal licences until December 1, 2014 while the Tahltan Nation and government took the time to consider what activities were appropriate in the Klappan. This order did not affect existing coal tenures.

Through the Klappan Strategic Initiative, the Tahltan Nation has clearly stated its position that existing coal tenures must be included in any discussions to potentially develop a provincially designated protected area in the Klappan.

Given the position of the Tahltan Nation, government determined it would be appropriate to defer decisions on permits and permit amendments for existing coal tenures while discussions regarding the potential development of a provincially designated protected area in the Klappan are ongoing.

Government is committed to responsible resource extraction that supports good jobs for families and is also committed to working closely with First Nations on issues of cultural significance.

Media Contacts:

Sandra Steilo
Ministry of Energy and Mines
250 952-0617