The federal government today announced that eight B.C. First Nations will opt out of 34 land-related sections of the Indian Act and assume greater control over their reserve land.
Joining the First Nations Land Management Regime are Aitchelitz, Haisla Nation, Shuswap, Skowkale, St. Mary's, Stz'uminus, Williams Lake Indian Band and Yakweakwioose.
John Duncan, minister of aboriginal affairs and northern development, said, “The First Nations Land Management regime has a proven track record of increasing economic development opportunities for First Nations."
The Aitchelitz, Skowkale and Yakweakwioose will act as one entity under the Sto'lo Tribal Council, sharing funding for the development and operation of their new land code.
Robert Louie, chairman of the lands advisory board and chief of Westbank First Nation, said, “This is an investment in First Nations that will bring significant returns to these First Nations and to the entire Canadian economy.
For First Nations to be recognized as governing jurisdictions with their own decision-making powers is the desire of First Nation communities across this country.”
Jennifer Harrison
@JHarrisonBIV