VICTORIA - The leadership of the Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh Nations are pleased to announce that they have entered into a historic Protocol Agreement that reaffirms their long-standing relationship.

The agreement celebrates cultural and family connections and outlines the practical mechanisms for equally sharing economic benefits arising from crown land sales occurring within the Nation’s shared territories. The agreement also lays the foundation for working together as business partners in the acquisition and development of some significant properties in the Vancouver area as part of a long-term investment strategy that will benefit the First Nation communities for generations to come.

As a result of this Protocol Agreement, Technology, Innovation and Citizens’ Services Minister Andrew Wilkinson announced today that two landmark property sales agreements have been reached between the provincial government and the three First Nations.

The Musqueam and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations have purchased the Willingdon Lands in Burnaby, while the Musqueam, Tsleil-Waututh and Squamish First Nations have a contract in place to buy the Liquor Distribution Branch (LDB) warehouse site in Vancouver, opening the properties for future economic development.

There will be no disruption in services for the programs currently operating from Willingdon as a result of the sale. The programs will be able to remain in their current locations for three years to allow sufficient time for relocation to a program specific facility at a new location.

A new, modern facility that meets LDB specifications will be located. This provides an opportunity to modernize the warehouse and distribution operations to increase efficiencies and be situated in the best logistical location.

The Province and the three Nations will celebrate the signing of the Protocol Agreement and the transfer of provincial properties tomorrow at the former Olympic Four Host First Nations pavilion.

Quotes:

Andrew Wilkinson, Minister of Technology, Innovation and Citizens’ Services -

“These partnerships are truly historic with lower mainland First Nations coming together to purchase properties so they can pursue new economic development opportunities that benefit not only their communities, but the local communities and the province as well.”

Tsleil-Waututh Chief Maureen Thomas -

“Our Nations often talk about our shared connection to our lands and waters, but today we are highlighting our shared connection as First Nations people. This agreement is so important for our three communities and we hope it sets a positive example of what can be achieved when we truly work together as one.”

Musqueam Chief Wayne Sparrow -

“Following from our successful partnership with the City of Vancouver, the protocol agreement with the Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh Nation demonstrates the growing strength of First Nations in the lower mainland taking back our rightful place in advancing the economy of British Columbia.”

Byron Joseph, Co-Chair of the Squamish Nation Chiefs and Council -

“Together we welcomed the world during the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in the 2010 Aboriginal Pavilion. This partnership that we celebrate today is not only a continuation of our ancient relationship, but also our work during the Games, and it is fitting that the celebration is taking place here in the Pavilion.”

A backgrounder follows.

Media Contacts:

Doug Raines
CAO
Musqueam Indian Band
604 263-3261

Krisandra Jacobs
Squamish Nation
communications@squamish.net
604 240-5539

Sarah Thomas
Tsleil-Waututh Nation
Media@twnation.ca
604 358-3371

Jason Macnaughton
Communications Director
Ministry of Technology, Innovation and Citizens’ Services
250 387-3134

BACKGROUNDER

First Nations acquire two lower mainland properties

• The Musqueam and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations have purchased the Willingdon Lands in Burnaby, while the Musqueam, Tsleil-Waututh and Squamish First Nations have a contract in place to buy the Liquor Distribution Branch (LDB) warehouse site in Vancouver, opening the properties for future economic development.
• These significant economic development opportunities for the First Nations will also benefit the local communities with new development, construction and economic activity. The three First Nations will work closely with the respective local governments and communities as they move forward with development plans.
• There will be no disruption in services for the programs currently operating from Willingdon as a result of the sale. The programs will be able to remain in their current locations for three years to allow sufficient time for relocation to a program specific facility at a new location.
• A new, modern facility that meets LDB specifications will be located. This provides an opportunity to modernize the warehouse and distribution operations to increase efficiencies and be situated in the best logistical location. It also allows LDB to re-assess its beverage-alcohol supply-chain operations and take advantage of appropriate warehouse sizing, streamline its business processes, and upgrade its technology.
• The 16-hectare Willingdon property at Willingdon Avenue and Canada Way in Burnaby and the 3.6-hectare Liquor Distribution Branch (LDB) site at East Broadway in Vancouver are underutilized for best and highest use.
• The structures on the Willingdon property are nearing the end of their economic life and occupy a small portion of the site.

Media Contacts:

Jason Macnaughton
Communications Director
Ministry of Technology, Innovation and Citizens’ Services
250 387-3134