Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation John Rustad has issued the following statement in support of the Lheidli T’enneh First Nation’s renewed interest in the B.C. treaty process:

“I am extremely pleased that Lheidli T’enneh First Nation will hold a second ratification vote on their Final Agreement. Treaties are one way to advance long-term reconciliation and economic prosperity for First Nations, and create certainty on the land base, to the mutual benefit of treaty nations and neighbouring communities.

“The Final Agreement negotiated between Lheidli T’enneh, B.C. and Canada provides a comprehensive package of benefits for the community, including provisions for land and resources, harvesting rights, self-governance and social services.

“I want to congratulate the leadership of Lheidli T’enneh for their hard work to build consensus within their community to reengage in the treaty process. The Province will work in partnership with Canada and Lheidli T’enneh to engage the community and support the membership as they make an informed choice on their future as a treaty nation.”