Victoria, BC – A local government advisory committee for the Te’mexw treaty negotiations released a paper today outlining their interests in the treaty. Committee chair Barb Desjardins, who is also Mayor of Esquimalt said, “We understand the need for the treaty process, and have been working since 2005 to have local interests heard.”
The Te’mexw treaty is being negotiated between the governments of Canada and British Columbia and five Coast Salish First Nations on Lower Vancouver Island. It will cover far-reaching issues, many of which are also the responsibility of local governments.
The local government advisory committee represents the municipalities of Colwood, Esquimalt, Highlands, Langford, Metchosin, Saanich, Sooke and View Royal. Working together, the committee identified interests in seven areas that may impact local government and the people they represent.
“The implications of this treaty are significant for municipalities and property owners,” Desjardins said. “Although the advisory committee has a limited ability to influence the negotiations, we will continue to express the issues for local government and municipal taxpayers.”
People are encouraged to learn more about the Te’mexw Treaty and its impact on local communities by contacting their local MLA, MP or the Honourable George Abbott, BC’s Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation. Further information on the treaty is available at: www.gov.bc.ca/arr/firstnation/temexw/,
Information resources:
Identification of Treaty Interests: A Guide to Local Government Interests in the Te’mexw Treaty Negotiations
The Te’mexw Treaty: Impact on Local Communities
For more information please contact:
Mayor Barb Desjardins
Phone: 250- 412-8600