Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Minister John Rustad released the following statement today, in response to members of Northern Secwepemc te Qelmucw (NStQ) voting in favour of ratifying their treaty Agreement-in-Principle:

“I would like to congratulate the members of the NStQ communities of Tsq’escen’ (Canim Lake), Stswecem’c/ Xgat’tem (Canoe/Dog Creek), Xat’sūll (Soda Creek) and T’exelc (Williams Lake) for voting to support the treaty Agreement-in-Principle and making their voices heard.

“This is a key milestone in the treaty process, and a testament to the hard work of NStQ leadership to build support within their communities for the Agreement-in-Principle and moving to Final Agreement negotiations.

“The Agreement-in-Principle provides the basis for a final treaty and sets the stage for lasting reconciliation, self-governance and greater participation in the economy for NStQ First Nations.

“The next step in treaty negotiations is for the Agreement-in-Principle to be signed by Canada, British Columbia and NStQ First Nations and for Final Agreement negotiations to proceed.”

For more information on treaties in British Columbia, visit: http://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/natural-resource-stewardship/consulting-with-first-nations/first-nations-negotiations