Latest news with #Tŝilhqot'in
Business Upturn
3 days ago
- Business
- Business Upturn
Taseko, Tŝilhqot'in Nation & Province of BC Reach Historic Agreement Concerning the New Prosperity Project
By GlobeNewswire Published on June 6, 2025, 02:19 IST VANCOUVER, British Columbia, June 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Taseko Mines Limited (TSX: TKO; NYSE American: TGB; LSE: TKO) ('Taseko' or the 'Company'), the Tŝilhqot'in Nation and the Province of British Columbia ('BC') today announced the signing of an agreement (the 'Agreement') to resolve a complex, long-standing conflict concerning Taseko's New Prosperity mineral tenures, located approximately 125 kilometers southwest of Williams Lake, British Columbia in the Teẑtan Biny (Fish Lake) area of Tŝilhqot'in territory. New Prosperity is one of the largest copper-gold deposits in Canada, with a measured and indicated mineral resource containing 5.3 billion pounds of copper and 13.3 million ounces of gold1. Negotiated over a period of years, the Agreement ends litigation among the three parties, while providing certainty with respect to how the significant copper-gold resource at New Prosperity may be developed in the future. In resolving a high-profile conflict between the rights of resource developers and First Nations, the Agreement meaningfully advances the goals of reconciliation in British Columbia. Stuart McDonald, President & CEO commented, ' This Agreement resolves a damaging and value-destructive dispute, and acknowledges Taseko's commercial interests in the New Prosperity property and the cultural significance of the area to the Tŝilhqot'in Nation. Taseko will retain a majority interest (77.5%) in the mineral tenures, while any future development at New Prosperity will benefit the Tŝilhqot'in people, and will only occur with their free, prior and informed consent . 'We thank all the parties for their contributions at the negotiating table and their commitment to the multi-year dialogue that has led to this historic agreement. ' Key elements of the Agreement include: Taseko will receive a payment of $75 million from the Province of BC on closing. Taseko will contribute a 22.5% equity interest in the New Prosperity mineral tenures to a trust for the future benefit of the Tŝilhqot'in Nation. The trust will transfer the property interest to the Tŝilhqot'in Nation when and if it consents to a proposal to pursue mineral development in the project area. Taseko retains a majority interest (77.5%) in the New Prosperity mineral tenures and can divest some or all of its interest at any time, including to other mining companies that could advance a project with the consent of the Tŝilhqot'in Nation. However, Taseko has committed not to be the proponent (operator) of mineral exploration and development activities at New Prosperity, nor the owner of a future mine development. Taseko has entered into a consent agreement with the Tŝilhqot'in Nation, whereby no mineral exploration or development activity can proceed in the New Prosperity project area without the free, prior and informed consent of the Tŝilhqot'in Nation. BC and the Tŝilhqot'in Nation have agreed to negotiate the process by which the consent of the Tŝilhqot'in Nation will be sought for any proposed mining project to proceed through an environmental assessment process. The Tŝilhqot'in Nation and BC have agreed to undertake a land-use planning process for the area of the mineral tenures and a broader area of land within Tŝilhqot'in territory. BC will provide funding to the Tŝilhqot'in Nation to facilitate the land-use planning process and for a Cultural Revitalization Fund. 1 Refer below to 'New Prosperity Mineral Tenures and Mineral Resources' and cautionary note. Jagrup Brar, Minister of Mining and Critical Minerals for BC, commented: ' Resolution of this legal and public conflict has been a priority for this government. These negotiations, which began under the previous mandate, laid important groundwork. The agreement demonstrates B.C.'s commitment to reconciliation and ensuring that the interests of First Nations and mining companies can advance together. I want to recognize all parties to this agreement for their willingness to collaborate to find common ground, build mutual respect, and create a foundation for shared prosperity. We will continue working in partnership to maintain a stable investment climate and future economic benefits for British Columbians .' Christine Boyle, Minister of Indigenous Relations & Reconciliation commented: ' It has taken vision and courage from strong leaders to get us to this significant moment. Together with the Tŝilhqot'in Nation and Taseko Mines Limited, and through this settlement agreement, B.C. is aligning with commitments we've made under previous agreements—such as the Gwets'en Nilt'i Pathway Agreement—to support the Tŝilhqot'in path of self-determination. Through collaborative processes and by working in partnership with First Nations and industry, we will continue to advance reconciliation for the benefit of all .' Nits'ilʔin Roger William, Nits'ilʔin of Xeni Gwet'in, commented: ' This Agreement protects our rights of consent in the Teẑtan Area. That's huge. For over three decades, we've had conflict in the Teẑtan Area. For my oldest son, for many Tŝilhqot'in, that conflict has always been there, for their entire lives. Now we are turning the page. Tŝilhqot'in consent is protected: there is no longer the threat of exploration or mining without our consent. I hold my hands up to everyone that worked hard over the past five years to achieve this historic agreement that reflects true reconciliation, including the Province and Taseko Mines Limited. This is a time to celebrate for our people and honour all those who made this resolution possible .' Nits'ilʔin Lennon Solomon, Nits'ilʔin of Yuneŝit'in, commented: ' This is a historic moment for our people and for reconciliation in British Columbia and Canada. It shows what is possible when we come together in the right spirit to resolve even the deepest conflict. I am honoured to be part of a resolution that finally respects Tŝilhqot'in rights and jurisdiction in the Teẑtan Area, after a generation of conflict. I am grateful that we can move forward as Tŝilhqot'in in a positive way and put our energy and attention into our own priorities as a Nation .' The Agreement is subject to customary conditions and closing of the transaction is expected to occur in June 2025. For further information on Taseko, see the Company's website at or contact: Investor enquiries: Brian Bergot, Vice President, Investor Relations – 778-373-4554 Media enquiries: Sean Magee, Vice President, Corporate Affairs – 778-373-4543 Stuart McDonald President and CEO Background Information History In 2008, Taseko proposed a copper-gold mine known as the Prosperity Project ('Prosperity') and initiated federal and provincial Environmental Assessment ('EA') processes. The Tŝilhqot'in Nation opposed Prosperity, along with proposed mineral exploration and development activities in the area. In 2010, the Province of BC granted Taseko an EA Certificate for development of the Prosperity mine. Subsequently, in 2010, the Government of Canada denied Prosperity its federal EA Certificate and invited Taseko to submit a revised application to address specific issues related to its decision. In 2011, Taseko revised the project design and renamed the project New Prosperity. That same year, Taseko re-initiated federal and provincial EA processes with the updated project design. The Tŝilhqot'in Nation remained opposed to the New Prosperity project. In February 2014, the Government of Canada again denied New Prosperity federal authorization to proceed and again invited Taseko to submit a revised proposal. In June 2014, the Supreme Court of Canada declared Aboriginal title for the first time in Canadian history over an area of Tŝilhqot'in territory that includes lands near the New Prosperity property. In 2017, the Province of BC authorized Taseko to undertake a site investigation program at New Prosperity. Shortly afterward, the Tŝilhqot'in Nation initiated a lawsuit and in 2019, the B.C. Court of Appeal granted an injunction to halt Taseko's site investigation program to allow a full hearing of the case. With the Provincial EA Certificate valid and significant investment by Taseko, legal actions resulted involving the Tŝilhqot'in Nation, Taseko, the Province of BC and Government of Canada. The legal proceedings have focused on environmental assessment decisions by the federal and provincial governments, provincially authorized permits for site work programs, Taseko's proposed work programs, Taseko's mineral tenures, and Tŝilhqot'in proven and asserted Aboriginal rights and title. In 2019, the Tŝilhqot'in Nation and Taseko agreed to pause all court proceedings and regulatory processes in order to enter into a confidential dialogue, facilitated by the Province of BC. The resulting Agreement between Taseko, Tŝilhqot'in Nation, and BC has established a consent-based model for any mine development in the Project area; the parties can now explore long-term solutions outside of litigation. New Prosperity Mineral Tenures and Mineral Resources The New Prosperity mineral tenures consist of a mineral lease and 85 mineral claims owned by Taseko Mines Limited and located southwest of Williams Lake, BC, within the traditional territory of the Tŝilhqot'in Nation. The New Prosperity mineral resource estimate is described in a technical report entitled 'Technical Report on the 344 Million Tonne Increase in the Mineral Reserves at the Prosperity Gold-Copper Project, British Columbia, Canada' with an effective date of November 2, 2009 (the 'Prosperity Technical Report'). New Prosperity is not considered a property material to Taseko as defined by NI 43-101 and no additional work to identify further resources or reserves has been conducted at New Prosperity since the completion of the estimate. The below table sets out the mineral resources previously estimated at New Prosperity: Mineral Resources (effective November 2, 2009 at 0.14% copper cut-off) Metric Tonnes (millions) Copper Grade (%) Gold Grade (g/t) Measured 547 0.27 0.46 Indicated 463 0.21 0.34 Total Measured and Indicated Resources 1,010 0.24 0.41 Additional information regarding data verification, exploration information, known legal, political, environmental or other risks can be found in the Prosperity Technical Report. Due to the uncertainty surrounding the development of the New Prosperity Project and the fact that the Prosperity Technical Report has not been updated since 2009, caution is advised when assessing its conclusions in light of current metal price outlooks, operating and capital costs, appropriate technologies and like matters. No regulatory authority has approved or disapproved of the information contained in this news release Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Information This document contains 'forward-looking statements' that were based on Taseko's expectations, estimates and projections as of the dates as of which those statements were made. Generally, these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as 'outlook', 'anticipate', 'project', 'target', 'believe', 'estimate', 'expect', 'intend', 'should' and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the Company's actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These included but are not limited to: uncertainties about the future market price of copper and the other metals that we produce or may seek to produce; changes in general economic conditions, the financial markets, inflation and interest rates and in the demand and market price for our input costs, such as diesel fuel, reagents, steel, concrete, electricity and other forms of energy, mining equipment, and fluctuations in exchange rates, particularly with respect to the value of the U.S. dollar and Canadian dollar, and the continued availability of capital and financing; uncertainties about economic conditions generally including inflation levels, tariffs, and in particular with respect to the demand for copper and other metals we produce; uncertainties related to the accuracy of our estimates of Mineral Resources, production rates and timing of production, future production and future cash and total costs of production and milling; uncertainties related to whether the Tŝilhqot'in Nation will consent to advancement of New Prosperity, whether a new proponent for New Prosperity can be identified, and that the Mineral Resources at New Prosperity will ever be exploited; uncertainties with our ability to monetize our interest in the New Prosperity Project on economic terms or at all; our ability to comply with the extensive governmental regulation to which our business is subject; uncertainties related to our ability to obtain necessary title, licenses and permits for our development projects and project delays due to third party opposition; uncertainties related to First Nations claims and consultation issues; uncertainties related to unexpected judicial or regulatory proceedings; changes in, and the effects of, the laws, regulations and government policies affecting our exploration and development activities and mining operations and mine closure and bonding requirements; environmental issues and liabilities associated with mining; environmental hazards and risks associated with climate change, including the potential for damage to infrastructure and stoppages of operations due to forest fires, flooding, drought, or other natural events in the vicinity of our operations; litigation risks and the inherent uncertainty of litigation; our actual costs of reclamation and mine closure may exceed our current estimates of these liabilities; our ability to meet the financial reclamation security requirements; the capital intensive nature of our business both to sustain current mining operations and to develop any new projects,; our reliance upon key management and operating personnel; the competitive environment in which we operate; the risk of changes in accounting policies and methods we use to report our financial condition, including uncertainties associated with critical accounting assumptions and estimates; and Management Discussion and Analysis ('MD&A'), quarterly reports and material change reports filed with and furnished to securities regulators, and those risks which are discussed under the heading 'Risk Factors'. For further information on Taseko, investors should review the Company's annual Form 40-F filing with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission and home jurisdiction filings that are available at including the 'Risk Factors' included in our Annual Information Form. Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with GlobeNewswire. Business Upturn takes no editorial responsibility for the same. GlobeNewswire provides press release distribution services globally, with substantial operations in North America and Europe.
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Taseko, Tŝilhqot'in Nation & Province of BC Reach Historic Agreement Concerning the New Prosperity Project
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, June 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Taseko Mines Limited (TSX: TKO; NYSE American: TGB; LSE: TKO) ('Taseko' or the "Company"), the Tŝilhqot'in Nation and the Province of British Columbia ('BC') today announced the signing of an agreement (the 'Agreement') to resolve a complex, long-standing conflict concerning Taseko's New Prosperity mineral tenures, located approximately 125 kilometers southwest of Williams Lake, British Columbia in the Teẑtan Biny (Fish Lake) area of Tŝilhqot'in territory. New Prosperity is one of the largest copper-gold deposits in Canada, with a measured and indicated mineral resource containing 5.3 billion pounds of copper and 13.3 million ounces of gold1. Negotiated over a period of years, the Agreement ends litigation among the three parties, while providing certainty with respect to how the significant copper-gold resource at New Prosperity may be developed in the future. In resolving a high-profile conflict between the rights of resource developers and First Nations, the Agreement meaningfully advances the goals of reconciliation in British Columbia. Stuart McDonald, President & CEO commented, 'This Agreement resolves a damaging and value-destructive dispute, and acknowledges Taseko's commercial interests in the New Prosperity property and the cultural significance of the area to the Tŝilhqot'in Nation. Taseko will retain a majority interest (77.5%) in the mineral tenures, while any future development at New Prosperity will benefit the Tŝilhqot'in people, and will only occur with their free, prior and informed consent. 'We thank all the parties for their contributions at the negotiating table and their commitment to the multi-year dialogue that has led to this historic agreement.' Key elements of the Agreement include: Taseko will receive a payment of $75 million from the Province of BC on closing. Taseko will contribute a 22.5% equity interest in the New Prosperity mineral tenures to a trust for the future benefit of the Tŝilhqot'in Nation. The trust will transfer the property interest to the Tŝilhqot'in Nation when and if it consents to a proposal to pursue mineral development in the project area. Taseko retains a majority interest (77.5%) in the New Prosperity mineral tenures and can divest some or all of its interest at any time, including to other mining companies that could advance a project with the consent of the Tŝilhqot'in Nation. However, Taseko has committed not to be the proponent (operator) of mineral exploration and development activities at New Prosperity, nor the owner of a future mine development. Taseko has entered into a consent agreement with the Tŝilhqot'in Nation, whereby no mineral exploration or development activity can proceed in the New Prosperity project area without the free, prior and informed consent of the Tŝilhqot'in Nation. BC and the Tŝilhqot'in Nation have agreed to negotiate the process by which the consent of the Tŝilhqot'in Nation will be sought for any proposed mining project to proceed through an environmental assessment process. The Tŝilhqot'in Nation and BC have agreed to undertake a land-use planning process for the area of the mineral tenures and a broader area of land within Tŝilhqot'in territory. BC will provide funding to the Tŝilhqot'in Nation to facilitate the land-use planning process and for a Cultural Revitalization Fund. 1 Refer below to 'New Prosperity Mineral Tenures and Mineral Resources' and cautionary note. Jagrup Brar, Minister of Mining and Critical Minerals for BC, commented: 'Resolution of this legal and public conflict has been a priority for this government. These negotiations, which began under the previous mandate, laid important groundwork. The agreement demonstrates B.C.'s commitment to reconciliation and ensuring that the interests of First Nations and mining companies can advance together. I want to recognize all parties to this agreement for their willingness to collaborate to find common ground, build mutual respect, and create a foundation for shared prosperity. We will continue working in partnership to maintain a stable investment climate and future economic benefits for British Columbians.' Christine Boyle, Minister of Indigenous Relations & Reconciliation commented: 'It has taken vision and courage from strong leaders to get us to this significant moment. Together with the Tŝilhqot'in Nation and Taseko Mines Limited, and through this settlement agreement, B.C. is aligning with commitments we've made under previous agreements—such as the Gwets'en Nilt'i Pathway Agreement—to support the Tŝilhqot'in path of self-determination. Through collaborative processes and by working in partnership with First Nations and industry, we will continue to advance reconciliation for the benefit of all.' Nits'ilʔin Roger William, Nits'ilʔin of Xeni Gwet'in, commented: 'This Agreement protects our rights of consent in the Teẑtan Area. That's huge. For over three decades, we've had conflict in the Teẑtan Area. For my oldest son, for many Tŝilhqot'in, that conflict has always been there, for their entire lives. Now we are turning the page. Tŝilhqot'in consent is protected: there is no longer the threat of exploration or mining without our consent. I hold my hands up to everyone that worked hard over the past five years to achieve this historic agreement that reflects true reconciliation, including the Province and Taseko Mines Limited. This is a time to celebrate for our people and honour all those who made this resolution possible.' Nits'ilʔin Lennon Solomon, Nits'ilʔin of Yuneŝit'in, commented: 'This is a historic moment for our people and for reconciliation in British Columbia and Canada. It shows what is possible when we come together in the right spirit to resolve even the deepest conflict. I am honoured to be part of a resolution that finally respects Tŝilhqot'in rights and jurisdiction in the Teẑtan Area, after a generation of conflict. I am grateful that we can move forward as Tŝilhqot'in in a positive way and put our energy and attention into our own priorities as a Nation.' The Agreement is subject to customary conditions and closing of the transaction is expected to occur in June 2025. For further information on Taseko, see the Company's website at or contact: Investor enquiries: Brian Bergot, Vice President, Investor Relations – 778-373-4554 Media enquiries: Sean Magee, Vice President, Corporate Affairs – 778-373-4543 Stuart McDonaldPresident and CEO Background Information History In 2008, Taseko proposed a copper-gold mine known as the Prosperity Project ('Prosperity') and initiated federal and provincial Environmental Assessment ('EA') processes. The Tŝilhqot'in Nation opposed Prosperity, along with proposed mineral exploration and development activities in the area. In 2010, the Province of BC granted Taseko an EA Certificate for development of the Prosperity mine. Subsequently, in 2010, the Government of Canada denied Prosperity its federal EA Certificate and invited Taseko to submit a revised application to address specific issues related to its decision. In 2011, Taseko revised the project design and renamed the project New Prosperity. That same year, Taseko re-initiated federal and provincial EA processes with the updated project design. The Tŝilhqot'in Nation remained opposed to the New Prosperity project. In February 2014, the Government of Canada again denied New Prosperity federal authorization to proceed and again invited Taseko to submit a revised proposal. In June 2014, the Supreme Court of Canada declared Aboriginal title for the first time in Canadian history over an area of Tŝilhqot'in territory that includes lands near the New Prosperity property. In 2017, the Province of BC authorized Taseko to undertake a site investigation program at New Prosperity. Shortly afterward, the Tŝilhqot'in Nation initiated a lawsuit and in 2019, the B.C. Court of Appeal granted an injunction to halt Taseko's site investigation program to allow a full hearing of the case. With the Provincial EA Certificate valid and significant investment by Taseko, legal actions resulted involving the Tŝilhqot'in Nation, Taseko, the Province of BC and Government of Canada. The legal proceedings have focused on environmental assessment decisions by the federal and provincial governments, provincially authorized permits for site work programs, Taseko's proposed work programs, Taseko's mineral tenures, and Tŝilhqot'in proven and asserted Aboriginal rights and title. In 2019, the Tŝilhqot'in Nation and Taseko agreed to pause all court proceedings and regulatory processes in order to enter into a confidential dialogue, facilitated by the Province of BC. The resulting Agreement between Taseko, Tŝilhqot'in Nation, and BC has established a consent-based model for any mine development in the Project area; the parties can now explore long-term solutions outside of litigation. New Prosperity Mineral Tenures and Mineral Resources The New Prosperity mineral tenures consist of a mineral lease and 85 mineral claims owned by Taseko Mines Limited and located southwest of Williams Lake, BC, within the traditional territory of the Tŝilhqot'in Nation. The New Prosperity mineral resource estimate is described in a technical report entitled 'Technical Report on the 344 Million Tonne Increase in the Mineral Reserves at the Prosperity Gold-Copper Project, British Columbia, Canada' with an effective date of November 2, 2009 (the 'Prosperity Technical Report'). New Prosperity is not considered a property material to Taseko as defined by NI 43-101 and no additional work to identify further resources or reserves has been conducted at New Prosperity since the completion of the estimate. The below table sets out the mineral resources previously estimated at New Prosperity: Mineral Resources (effective November 2, 2009 at 0.14% copper cut-off) Metric Tonnes (millions) Copper Grade (%) Gold Grade (g/t) Measured 547 0.27 0.46 Indicated 463 0.21 0.34 Total Measured and Indicated Resources 1,010 0.24 0.41 Additional information regarding data verification, exploration information, known legal, political, environmental or other risks can be found in the Prosperity Technical Report. Due to the uncertainty surrounding the development of the New Prosperity Project and the fact that the Prosperity Technical Report has not been updated since 2009, caution is advised when assessing its conclusions in light of current metal price outlooks, operating and capital costs, appropriate technologies and like matters. No regulatory authority has approved or disapproved of the information contained in this news release Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Information This document contains 'forward-looking statements' that were based on Taseko's expectations, estimates and projections as of the dates as of which those statements were made. Generally, these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as 'outlook', 'anticipate', 'project', 'target', 'believe', 'estimate', 'expect', 'intend', 'should' and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the Company's actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These included but are not limited to: uncertainties about the future market price of copper and the other metals that we produce or may seek to produce; changes in general economic conditions, the financial markets, inflation and interest rates and in the demand and market price for our input costs, such as diesel fuel, reagents, steel, concrete, electricity and other forms of energy, mining equipment, and fluctuations in exchange rates, particularly with respect to the value of the U.S. dollar and Canadian dollar, and the continued availability of capital and financing; uncertainties about economic conditions generally including inflation levels, tariffs, and in particular with respect to the demand for copper and other metals we produce; uncertainties related to the accuracy of our estimates of Mineral Resources, production rates and timing of production, future production and future cash and total costs of production and milling; uncertainties related to whether the Tŝilhqot'in Nation will consent to advancement of New Prosperity, whether a new proponent for New Prosperity can be identified, and that the Mineral Resources at New Prosperity will ever be exploited; uncertainties with our ability to monetize our interest in the New Prosperity Project on economic terms or at all; our ability to comply with the extensive governmental regulation to which our business is subject; uncertainties related to our ability to obtain necessary title, licenses and permits for our development projects and project delays due to third party opposition; uncertainties related to First Nations claims and consultation issues; uncertainties related to unexpected judicial or regulatory proceedings; changes in, and the effects of, the laws, regulations and government policies affecting our exploration and development activities and mining operations and mine closure and bonding requirements; environmental issues and liabilities associated with mining; environmental hazards and risks associated with climate change, including the potential for damage to infrastructure and stoppages of operations due to forest fires, flooding, drought, or other natural events in the vicinity of our operations; litigation risks and the inherent uncertainty of litigation; our actual costs of reclamation and mine closure may exceed our current estimates of these liabilities; our ability to meet the financial reclamation security requirements; the capital intensive nature of our business both to sustain current mining operations and to develop any new projects,; our reliance upon key management and operating personnel; the competitive environment in which we operate; the risk of changes in accounting policies and methods we use to report our financial condition, including uncertainties associated with critical accounting assumptions and estimates; and Management Discussion and Analysis ('MD&A'), quarterly reports and material change reports filed with and furnished to securities regulators, and those risks which are discussed under the heading 'Risk Factors'. For further information on Taseko, investors should review the Company's annual Form 40-F filing with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission and home jurisdiction filings that are available at including the 'Risk Factors' included in our Annual Information in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
13-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Tŝilhqot'in outlines a plan to deal with the toxic drug crisis — but needs the resources
This story is published through the Indigenous News Alliance, which includes McKennaIndigiNewsAt the United Nations headquarters in 'New York City,' Sierra William's voice shook with emotion as she spoke about the toxic drug crisis in her community.'Death has been so normalized with our people — smallpox, residential schools, 60s Scoop, this has all led to trauma and tragedy in our communities,' said the Tŝilhqot'in Nation Youth ambassador.'Self care for us is doing things to connect us to our culture, to our ways of life. The exact things that were taken away from us through colonization.'William, who is from Xeni Gwet'in in 'B.C.'s' Nemiah Valley, was part of a Tŝilhqot'in delegation attending the UN Permanent Forum On Indigenous Issues last a press conference, the group called for increased support from the federal and provincial governments to create Indigenous-led and culturally appropriate responses to the opioid delegation also highlighted the Truth and Reconciliation Commission calls to action from 2015 and the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People.'The Truth and Reconciliation calls to action outline what needs to happen to improve the health and wellness of our Indigenous peoples across Canada,' William said on April 24.'If the calls to action were to be realized, some of our people wouldn't have a reason to turn to drugs.'Jenny Philbrick, executive director of the Tŝilhqot'in National Government, said the nation declared a state of emergency over toxic drugs for all its six member communities more than a year now, she told attendees, there is renewed urgency.'As we were coming over a week ago, we got news that another one of our community members had passed from an overdose,' she said. 'And so we are here today to bring this issue back to the table.'Tŝilhqot'in Nation is one of many Indigenous communities across the country facing the brunt of the opioid March, the Homalco First Nation on 'Vancouver Island' declared a state of emergency, saying four young people had died over six months from toxic drugs. The Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council also declared a state of emergency in all its 14 member communities in 'British Columbia,' toxic drug overdoses are the leading cause of death for people aged between 10 and 59. According to the province, First Nations people are five times more likely to overdose than other residents and three times more likely to fatally overdose.'We know why there's a toxic drug crisis — there are so many different systemic reasons why we're going through what we're going through today,' said Philbrick.'We know what the solutions are. We need partners to come to the table and help us bring our solutions … and move forward in a good way.'Xeni Gwet'in Chief Roger William outlined a three-part plan involving the governments of 'Canada' and 'B.C.' but would allow Tŝilhqot'in Nation to deal with the issue 'in our own way.''We are in crisis,' he said. 'We want to make decisions for our own people.'William said, first, Indigenous communities must be given resources for their own recovery programs on the land such as equine therapy — including cultural and language he said, First Nations must have the ability to safely exercise their voices in treatment spaces so it's easier to seek out help, since people still face discrimination and racism in the healthcare system. Lastly, William pointed to the housing issue and said he wants to find space for all First Nations to come together to talk about solutions.'The basic needs of our people must be met to stop our people from falling into using drugs,' he said.'If we can provide safe and secure housing for our people, then they have a place to come together with their families and get social support they need to overcome their addictions.'William added that 'some of the things are already happening' and said many young people are often out on the land with Elders and the nation often holds gatherings as they try to get closer to Tŝilhqot'in law and ways of life.'And a lot of these programs that we look at — it always goes back to that Tŝilhqot'in law, the land and our water,' he said. 'Those are really important to us.'Dakota Diablo, another Tŝilhqot'in Youth ambassador, said the public safety system in 'Canada' continues to fail Indigenous Peoples 'because it was never built for us.''We have our own traditional laws, values and systems of holding our people accountable,' he said.'How can our people seek help when structures meant to support our people cause so much harm?'IndigiNews requested comments from both the governments of 'B.C.' and 'Canada' but did not receive a response before said since Tŝilhqot'in declared a state of emergency last year, there has been some progress on addressing the issue, but 'we're needing more immediate resources' such as beds for people who are detoxing.'We have managed to hire a project manager and obtain property for the beginning of on the land training,' she said.'And we do have some solutions and some plans in place, but we … need immediate help in the meantime.'Tl'esqox Chief Francis Laceese, who is also the vice-chief of Tŝilhqot'in National Government, said change has been 'a slow process.' He said the nation recently met with the provincial government and is waiting to meet with the federal government after the recent election which has slowed things down.'Especially when you have a crisis — probably just not in our nation, but I think there are a lot of other nations that are in the same situation with us,' he said.
Cision Canada
09-05-2025
- Politics
- Cision Canada
Tŝilhqot'in Nation signs historic Coordination Agreement with Canada and British Columbia towards First Nations-led child and family services
"Tŝilhqot'in Nidlin" – "We are Tŝilhqot'in" The Tŝilhqot'in Nation has always asserted its inherent right to self-government, including jurisdiction, over its children and families – a right affirmed with the signing of a historic Coordination Agreement between the Tŝilhqot'in Nation, Canada and the Province of British Columbia using the framework provided by An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families. Together, the Nitsilʔin-Qi (Council of Chiefs) for the Tŝilhqot'in Nation, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and the Honourable Jodie Wickens, B.C. Minister of Children and Family Development signed a Coordination Agreement; a key milestone on the path of transforming the lives of the Tŝilhqot'in people and the relationship with the Crown. The agreement establishes responsibilities and processes for providing the coordination services to Tŝilhqot'in children and young adults. It outlines a way forward that honours past, present, and future generations of the Tŝilhqot'in Nation for whom raising healthy and thriving children is a fundamental right and core to their identity, responsibilities, and law as Tŝilhqot'in people. This year, Canada will provide $35.2 million toward, amongst other things, the delivery of prevention, governance, dispute resolution, community navigator and post majority support services in the initial phase of Tŝilhqot'in jurisdiction. The Province of British Columbia will provide $766,222 to support Tŝilhqot'in jurisdiction. Through this transition there will be strong collaboration with Denisiqi Services Society, and the province, to continue to deliver protection services under provincial law to all Tŝilhqot'in on and off reserve as the Tŝilhqot'in Nation builds capacity to exercise full jurisdiction under the Tŝilhqot'in law. On April 1, 2025, the Tŝilhqot'in Nation enacted their children and families law – Tŝilhqot'in ʔEsqax Sutsel Jeniyax (Tŝilhqot'in children growing up in a good way) as the foundation for exercising its inherent jurisdiction and to establish a new model of care for Tŝilhqot'in children, youth and families grounded in Tŝilhqot'in teachings and values. For the Tŝilhqot'in People, the Coordination Agreement is formal recognition of their right to protect and care for their children based on traditional teachings and values. Quotes "We are making progress, as a Nation of six distinct communities working together in unity, to reclaim jurisdiction for our children and families. Organizational and legislative change doesn't happen overnight – but change must happen. Tŝilhqot'in problems require Tŝilhqot'in solutions and with intensive input from, and collaboration with our people, we have stood up our own Tŝilhqot'in law that puts our way of life, our values, and our children first. We are hopeful that the next chapter in the lives of the Tŝilhqot'in people is one of safety, health and happiness with deep connections to our culture and teachings." Nits'ilʔin Otis Guichon Tribal Chief, Tŝilhqot'in National Government "Every child deserves to grow up connected to their culture, language, and community. This historic agreement with the Tŝilhqot'in Nation isn't just about policies and programs – it's about recognizing that Indigenous communities have always known how to care for their children. By supporting Tŝilhqot'in jurisdiction over child and family services, we're strengthening their ability to build programs that reflect their values and traditions. Indigenous-led solutions transform lives, and it's inspiring to witness the Tŝilhqot'in Nation reclaim this fundamental right for their children and future generations." The Honourable Patty Hajdu Minister of Indigenous Services "This agreement represents an important milestone for the Tŝilhqot'in Nation, our Province, and the country. Care for children and youth that aligns with the teachings and values of their own culture is invaluable. It leads to better outcomes for children, families, and communities. This is a pivotal step on British Columbia's journey towards lasting reconciliation and I am so honoured to be able to celebrate it together in partnership with the Tŝilhqot'in People." The Honourable Jodie Wickens B.C. Minister of Children and Family Development Quick facts The Parties have committed to negotiate towards continued funding to support Tŝilhqot'in jurisdiction through the first phase of implementation. For most Indigenous children, child and family services are provided under the legislation of the province or territory where the children and families reside. On January 1, 2020, An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families (the Act) came into force. The Act affirms the inherent right to self-government of Indigenous Peoples, which includes jurisdiction over child and family services, provides a pathway for Indigenous communities to exercise jurisdiction over child and family services and sets out principles applicable, on a national level, to the provision of child and family services to Indigenous children. British Columbia's Indigenous Self-Government in Child and Family Services Amendment Act was passed into law on November 25, 2022, making B.C. the first province in Canada to expressly recognize the inherent right of self-government of Indigenous communities including jurisdiction over child and family services. As of November 2020, federal investments have included $542 million in funding to advance First Nations, Inuit and Métis engagement to co-develop the implementation of the Act and to support Indigenous communities and groups in building the capacity to establish their own child and family services systems. As well, as $73.6 million in Budget 2021, and $87.3 million in Budget 2022, to support Indigenous jurisdiction over child and family services. Through Budget 2023-2024, the Government of Canada committed $1.8 billion over 11 years, starting in 2023−24, to support communities in exercising jurisdiction under the Act, including the first Inuit agreement to support community-led, prevention-based solutions to reduce the number of children in care. This is the fifth Coordination Agreement in B.C. and the 15 th in Canada. Stay connected Join the conversation about Indigenous Peoples in Canada: X: @tsilhqotin Facebook: @TsilhqotinNationalGovernment X: @GCIndigenous Facebook: @GCIndigenous Instagram: @gcindigenous You can subscribe to receive our news releases and speeches via RSS feeds. For more information or to subscribe, visit SOURCE Indigenous Services Canada
CBC
25-02-2025
- Politics
- CBC
Tŝilhqot'in National Government calls for change to land, water management in wake of 2024 B.C. landslide
Social Sharing The Tŝilhqot'in National Government (TNG) is calling on the B.C. and Canadian governments to uphold and support Tŝilhqot'in knowledge, laws and jurisdiction over its own territory, among other things, in the wake of a landslide last summer. On July 30, a landslide in Nagwentled, also known as Farwell Canyon, blocked the Chilcotin River in B.C.'s Interior, a vital stream for salmon, for six days. The effect the slide had on salmon remains unclear, though the Department of Fisheries and Oceans said in September that very few had passed the landslide area. A new report from the TNG looked at the response from the Tŝilhqot'in and the provincial and federal governments, in an effort to find out what worked and what should happen moving forward. WATCH | Chilcotin River days after July 2024 landslide: B.C. river flows after water spills over landslide 7 months ago Duration 0:56 The TNG is made up of six Tŝilhqot'in communities working together to advocate for the Tŝilhqot'in people. Among them is Tl'esqox Chief Francis Laceese, who pointed out that managing the land and water within the TNG's territory is part of the United Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. "Governments have to change their legislation and their way of thinking," he said. The TNG says the slide signified a "changing of the waters," and a realignment of the relationships between the TNG and other governments. The report touches on the fact that the Tŝilhqot'in Nation is in charge of emergency management when it comes to fires in its territory — but the landslide response was a different story. It says the landslide revealed shortfalls in communication and co-ordination of the emergency response from provincial and federal governments. The TNG says it had to overcome "jurisdictional confusion" and that the province "struggled" to share information about the slide, and as a result, the First Nation's own emergency management was "largely hamstrung" when trying to help residents due to a lack of up-to-date information. Key among the complaints, the report says, was the lack of information sharing. "While the provincial government helpfully arranged helicopter viewings for chiefs and senior staff, the province was reluctant to share monitoring data on a government-to-government basis with the [Tsilhqot'in National Government]," the report says. 'They know what they're doing' The Nation says it wants to ensure it is leading on emergency management within its own territory. Jenny Philbrick, TNG Executive Director, said that while the Tŝilhqot'in started work on the landslide right away, the provincial and federal governments also got involved. "Tŝilhqot'in people and a lot of other Indigenous people have jurisdiction in their own lands, and they know what they're doing," Philbrick said during a news conference on Monday. "Indigenous people should be taking the lead in their own lands." Funding needed Among its four calls to action is money for emergency reserve and restoration funds. The First Nation says the uncertain and delayed funding from the federal government forced it to move forward with "urgent and vital actions to steward the salmon" without a guarantee of support from Ottawa. Philbrick said ongoing funding is necessary, as two subsequent landslides happened after the initial slide, and another is expected. "Another reason why this is so important [is] to make sure that those relationships are good and that there's still funding flowing for future landslides." The TNG also says that given its historical knowledge and expertise in the area and in terms of salmon, it's in the best position to lead on salmon recovery. It's calling on the province and feds to transition the TNG's Emergency Salmon Task Force to a long-term project. The federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans was unable to provide a response to the report before publication.
