B.C. First Nations Call To Pause Treaty legislation

A coalition of First Nations in British Columbia is calling on the provincial government to pause progress on two major treaty bills, arguing that they were not properly consulted and that their territorial rights are being affected. The request comes as Bills 20 and 21, related to agreements with the K’omoks and Kitselas First Nations, move toward further debate in the legislature.

The groups raising concerns include the Wei Wai Kum First Nation, Nine Allied Tribes, and the Lax Kw’alaams Band. Leaders from these Nations say the proposed treaties overlap significantly with their traditional territories. According to them, the K’omoks treaty could impact around 80 percent of Wei Wai Kum territory, while the Kitselas treaty could affect more than 90 percent of lands associated with the other Nations involved.

Garry Reece, mayor of the Lax Kw’alaams Band, said his community strongly opposes the Kitselas treaty in its current form. While he acknowledged support for treaty agreements in principle, he stressed that any deal must respect existing territorial boundaries and involve proper consultation. He warned that failure to address these concerns could lead to protests or disruptions, including possible roadblocks affecting major development projects.

Leaders also highlighted that several large-scale projects, including port expansion and proposed energy developments in the region, could be impacted if tensions are not resolved. They argue that moving forward without consent risks further conflict and uncertainty for both communities and investors.

Chris Roberts of the Wei Wai Kum First Nation said the issue is not opposition to treaties themselves, but rather how they are being implemented. He described the situation as having a “fatal flaw,” pointing to a lack of clear recognition of overlapping land claims between different Nations.

In response, Spencer Chandra Herbert, B.C.’s Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, acknowledged the concerns and said there may be a need to pause and reassess. He indicated that further discussions between the province and First Nations will be necessary to address the issues and find a path forward.

The situation highlights ongoing challenges in treaty negotiations, particularly when multiple Indigenous groups have overlapping claims. As discussions continue, the outcome will likely play a key role in shaping relations between First Nations and the provincial government, as well as the future of development projects in the region.