The B-C cabinet and representatives of more than 200 First Nations organizations began meetings in Vancouver yesterday (Tuesday) for their seventh annual summit.
Premier David Eby said his government is committed to implementing provisions of the U-N Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
Stewart Phillip, Grand Chief of the Union of B-C Indian Chiefs, mentioned provincial legislation requiring laws to be consistent with the declaration, passed three years ago, is the foundation for achieving that goal.
Homelessness, health care, and land and resources are the prime topics on the agenda.
“While the critical work to implement and bring to life the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act has advanced since 2019, the B.C. Cabinet and First Nations Leaders’ Gathering (FNLG) is committed to flagging urgent issues and opportunities. As First Nations’ priorities, rights and titles are addressed, the foundation of good governance is reinforced. FNLG 2022, with the opportunity for leaders to meet in person, will enhance economic, social and cultural development, peace and security. This is a process of building good and stable governance while ensuring self-determination as we all move forward on post-colonial pathways toward reconciliation,” – Terry Teegee, Regional Chief of BC Assmebly of First Nations.
Eby added he also wants to discuss specific issues facing individual communities.
– with files from Vista Radio newswire