District of 100 Mile House celebrates $375,000 Build Communities Strong Funding

Courtesy of the District of 100 Mile House:

The District of 100 Mile House is pleased to announce that it has received $375,000 through the Strategic Priorities Fund to support the development of an Asset Management Plan and Infrastructure Renewal Strategy. 

We are thankful to be one of the 54 recently announced projects announced by the Government of Canada, the Province of British Columbia, and the Union of BC Municipalities. This funding represents an important investment in the District’s ability to strengthen the long-term resilience and livability of 100 Mile House by ensuring core water, sewer, and road infrastructure is planned, funded, and maintained to meet current and future needs. 

"For local governments across British Columbia, the right investment can support housing, foster connection and build strong communities,” said the Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Pacific Economic Development Canada. “This project will make a lasting impact and reinforces our commitment to building bold, building strong, and building together.”

“Asset management gives local governments a clearer picture of the condition of roads, water and sewer systems, helping them make informed decisions about when to renew and invest in essential infrastructure. Through our partnership with the Government of Canada and UBCM, this project will help the District of 100 Mile House plan ahead, manage costs and make the most of every infrastructure investment,” says the Hon. Christine Boyle, BC's Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs.

“This funding is an important investment in our community’s future. By planning for the infrastructure we need today, including water, sewer and roads, we are helping ensure our community is well-positioned for sustainable growth and future opportunities,” says 100 Mile House Mayor Maureen Pinkney.

The District of 100 Mile House appreciates the continued support of programs like the Strategic Priorities Fund through the Build Communities Strong Fund which provide communities with the resources needed to plan and maintain essential infrastructure and continue delivering the services residents rely on

Happy 158th Birthday, Canada!

Courtesy of the Premier of BC - Hon. David Eby:

“Today, millions of people across our vast, beautiful land – from Bonavista to Vancouver Island, from the Arctic Circle to the Great Lakes waters – are celebrating Canada Day.

“People will gather to enjoy food and fireworks, as well as parties and parades. This is a wonderful time for communities to gather and celebrate our peaceful and democratic country.

“This Canada Day is unlike any other in recent memory, as we face unprecedented economic and political threats. Those dangers have sharpened our appreciation for what we have accomplished in building the Canada we love, including such monumental achievements as a public health-care system. To be Canadian is to be proud of the way we take care of each other.

“The challenges we face in improving our country are many. We do so confident that we will find solutions by working together. Even as we debate our differences with vigour, we keep in mind far more unites us than divides us.

“The Canada of today is the result of a long history of compromise and negotiation, reflecting the Canadian values of fairness, generosity and humility. We should be proud of the role Canada has played in the world. We have answered the call to combat tyranny, and have also been ardent peacekeepers in troubled lands. We have welcomed waves of newcomers throughout our history, and we are proud today to be able to offer sanctuary to people from war-torn countries who seek peace and security.

“The pride we feel for our country does not mean we ignore our own troubled and complicated history. Canada Day offers an opportunity for reflection on the impact of colonialism on generations of Indigenous Peoples. Our government is dedicated to addressing these matters in a spirit of reconciliation in partnership with Indigenous Peoples.

“The work of building a better Canada is never done, as nation building is an assignment without end. We will always seek to make a country that in every way is more peaceful, more prosperous and more democratic for ourselves, our families, our neighbours, our communities and for all who call this land home. An important part of that is our desire in British Columbia to build an economy that works for everyone.

“Let’s take the opportunity this Canada Day to remind ourselves of what we have accomplished together. Happy Canada Day!”

Courtesy of Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney:

“One hundred and fifty-eight years ago, a few provinces bet on the idea that they’d be stronger together than they ever could be apart. They were right, and so they became a new federation that’s now grown into our strong, bilingual, multicultural, and ambitious country.

“Our story didn’t begin at Confederation. For thousands of years, Indigenous Peoples have called this land home, and our country’s next chapter will be written together in true partnership with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis.

“Our shared history has been marked by inflection points. Moments where Canada has had to step up – on the battlefield of Vimy, on the beaches of Normandy, in the homes of Gander after 9/11.

“Now, we face another such moment. The world is changing. Old friendships are fraying, our economy is being buffeted by a trade crisis, and our values are being tested by attacks on democracy and freedoms.

“In a more divided and dangerous world, Canadians are uniting. Together, we will build one Canadian economy – connected by major projects, powered by Canadian energy, transformed by Canadian technology, and crafted by Canadian workers. Together, we’re breaking down barriers across the country so you can buy Canadian everywhere and work anywhere. Together, we’ll rebuild, rearm, and reinvest in our Armed Forces – because Canadian leadership is defined not only by the strength of our values, but also by the value of our strength.

“This is the greatest nation on earth. Our destiny is to make it greater still – not by what we say, but by what we do. Happy Canada Day.”

TNG signs historic Coordination Agreement with Canada and BC towards First Nations-led child and family services

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

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.

“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

Tsq̓éscen̓ First Nation’s (Canim Lake) child wellbeing law comes in force

Courtesy of the Government of Canada:

Tsq̓éscen̓ First Nation is proud to breathe life into their child well-being law, T'k̓wenm7íple7tens re Kíkwe. They have always upheld and practiced their laws, teachings, and responsibilities in caring for, protecting, supporting, and uplifting Tsq̓éscnem̓c (Tsq̓éscen̓ people, “people of the broken rock”). The law, which is an expression of Tsq̓éscen̓ jurisdiction and legislative authority over child and family services, came into force on December 21, 2024.

T'k̓wenm7íple7tens re Kíkwe is a result of decades of work by Tsq̓éscen̓ leadership, staff, and community, with advice and guidance from Tsq̓éscen̓'s Elders and traditional knowledge keepers. It is grounded in Tsq̓éscen̓’s stories, teachings, practices, and language, and centered on the nurturing of connection to family and community.

T'k̓wenm7íple7tens re Kíkwe, means “Law of the Valerian Plant” in Secwepemctsín—a plant used traditionally by Tsq̓éscnem̓c to soothe and comfort babies. The law enshrines within it the principle that “re Tsq̓éscnem̓c me7 yecwemíns re xwexwéyt te Tsq̓éscnem̓c ell Secwépemc,” meaning that Tsq̓éscnem̓c have responsibility to guard and care for all Tsq̓éscnem̓c and Secwépemc stsmémelt (children), tutuwíwt (youth), and kwesk̓wséltkten (families) regardless of location. This is consistent with Tsq̓éscen̓’s tradition and practice of going to, providing aid to, and retrieving Tsq̓éscen̓ te stsmémelt ell tutuwíwt in their times of need.

With the coming into force of T'k̓wenm7íple7tens re Kíkwe, Tsq̓éscen̓ can continue this practice through the delivery of Syecwementwécw (dedicated resources, programs, services, supports, and ceremony) for Tsq̓éscnem̓c, guided by the teachings of Xexe7úl̓ecw (a sacred teaching from Tsq̓escenúl̓ecw that emphasizes foresight, preparation, and the responsibility to equip children, youth, and families with resilience and strength to face life’s uncertainties.) Syecwementwécw will be administered and delivered by Tsq̓éscen̓ First Nation’s child and family well-being agency, Élksts re Kíkwe.

As the Northern Secwepemc te Qelmúcw Declaration Author, Matriarch Elizabeth Pete, reminds us: “Ne mitk’y-kt wel me7 yews. Skectels-kuc le q’7es te qelmúcw. Le q’7eses le st’ext’ex7e7m-kt, m-tskexmens le tsuwets ell stselxmems. Tselxem7uysts re ctckten’- kt. Kukwpi7stem es relrats re st’ext’ex7e7m-kt ne sxwexeytes re sw7ec ell tsuwets.

We carry the blood of our ancestors, and in turn, it is passed down to the next generations. The importance of family is shown and practiced through daily family life — from the Elders to the parents and to the younger generations. Families are proud of their strong roots, are loyal to relationships, and share in the responsibility of caring for children, for Elders, and for those in need. There is a deep sense of respect for the sacredness of body and of life. As Secwépemc, we fight for what we believe in. Mothers, Fathers, Uncles, Aunts, Children, and honoured Elders all participate and contribute to the community and its well-being. The practice of sharing assures that all needs are taken care of. Many Elders are models of traditional teachings meant to secure the well-being and continuance of Secwépemc.”

These words carry the essence of this journey.

Kukpi7 (Chief) Helen Henderson, Tsq̓éscen̓ First Nation stated:

We have been walking this path for generations, guided by the strength of our ancestors and the clarity of Tsq̓éscnem̓c mandate since creation. Our work is rooted in the laws and teachings that have always defined who we are as Secwépemc. It is not just about governance or jurisdiction — it is about living our values, honouring our responsibilities, and ensuring the health and well-being of our stsmémelt (children), tutuwíwt (youth), and kwesk̓wséltkten (families). We journey — not toward something new, but toward the continued fulfillment of our sacred responsibilities. Together, we walk with purpose, ensuring our future generations grow in strength, identity, and connection.”

Tŝilhqot’in Nation, Canada and B.C. celebrate 10-year title anniversary with renewal of agreement

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

This week marks 10 years since the historic Supreme Court of Canada judgment, known as the Tŝilhqot’in Decision, which resulted in the first declaration of Aboriginal title in Canadian history, recognizing the Tŝilhqot’in Nation as the owners of a portion of their traditional territory in the interior of British Columbia.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau attended the celebration on title lands to witness the recognition of Elders and other Tŝilhqot’in witnesses who courageously testified at trial during the title-and-rights case. Also attending the celebration were: Gary Anandasangaree, federal Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations; Patty Hajdu, federal Minister of Indigenous Services; Arif Virani, federal Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada; Murray Rankin, B.C. Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation; George Heyman, B.C. Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy; and many other dignitaries, Indigenous leaders and allies. 

As a commitment to continued progress, the Tŝilhqot’in Nation, the Government of Canada and Province of British Columbia signed a five-year renewal of the Gwets’en Nilt’i Pathway Agreement (GNPA).

The GNPA was initially signed in August 2019 between Canada, B.C., and the Tŝilhqot’in Nation. The first-of-its-kind agreement commits the parties to bring “transformative change” to the lives of the Tŝilhqot’in people and communities and to their relationship with government. Through the GNPA, the Tŝilhqot’in Nation has taken significant strides in Nation building, continually working to improve all aspects of life for Tŝilhqot’in communities, including governance initiatives, such as the Ts’iqi Dechen Jedilhtan (Women’s Council), Indigenous-led emergency management, new homes and renovations in all communities, world-class fisheries and ranger programs, community and family support programs, and steps to reclaim jurisdiction for Tŝilhqot’in children and families.

Along with new funding that is being provided by Canada and British Columbia to the Tŝilhqot’in Nation, the GNPA confirms the parties’ commitment to advancing reconciliation and building a prosperous future founded on mutual respect, recognition of rights and true partnership. Together, we continue to forge a path towards a more inclusive and equitable society for all people living in Canada.

3 way partnership for new Williams Lake Water Treatment Plant

Courtesy of the Government of Canada:

The construction of a water treatment plant will provide the community access to safe and healthier drinking water, thanks to an investment of more than $24.3 million from the Government of Canada, the Government of British Columbia and Williams Lake. Announced by Federal Minister Harjit S. Sajjan, BC Municipal Affairs Minister Anne Kang, and Williams Lake Mayor Surinderpal Rathor, this project will reduce manganese levels in the drinking water, contributing to the overall well-being and resilience of the community.

The project will install approximately 850 metres of new watermain, providing the community with an increased supply of fresh, clean drinking water. The new water treatment plant will include a chlorination and filtration system that will lower manganese levels in the drinking water which is important for public health, especially among vulnerable groups like children and the elderly.

By investing in infrastructure, the Government of Canada is growing our country’s economy, building resilient communities, and improving the lives of Canadians

Quick facts

The Government of Canada is investing $9,726,750 in this project, while the Government of British Columbia is investing $8,104,814. Williams Lake is contributing $6,485,311.

The Government of Canada’s funding comes from the Green Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program.

This stream helps build greener communities by contributing to climate change preparedness, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and supporting renewable technologies.

Including today’s announcement, 127 infrastructure projects or project bundles under the Green Infrastructure Stream have been funded in British Columbia, with a total federal contribution of more than $649 million and a total provincial contribution of nearly $340 million.  

Under the Investing in Canada Plan, the federal government is investing more than $180 billion over 12 years in public transit projects, green infrastructure, social infrastructure, trade and transportation routes, and Canada's rural and northern communities.

Infrastructure Canada helps address complex challenges that Canadians face every day—ranging from the rapid growth of our cities, to climate change, and environmental threats to our water and land. 

Federal funding is conditional on fulfilling all requirements related to consultation with Indigenous groups and environmental assessment obligations.

Federal $$$ coming for CMRC in Williams Lake

Courtesy of the Government of Canada:

Today, the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada announced a joint investment of more than $5.5 million to support seven infrastructure projects in the Central Interior and Northern regions of British Columbia.

In Williams Lake, this investment will support improvements to the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex. It will enable upgrades to the HVAC equipment, including the implementation of a system that will recover waste heat from arena refrigeration for use in pool heating, dehumidification, and air circulation. These improvements will reduce more than half of the facility’s greenhouse gas emissions and improve indoor air quality to provide safer and healthier indoor recreation options for residents.

By investing in infrastructure, the Government of Canada is growing our country’s economy, building resilient communities, and improving the lives of Canadians.

The Hon. Harjit Sajjan said:

“Upgrading infrastructure with modern green technology reduces energy use, provides cleaner air and lowers carbon emissions. Together with our partners, the Government of Canada is investing today in infrastructure like schools and recreational centres so that residents, communities, and nature benefit for years to come.”

While Margo Wagner - Board Chair with the Cariboo Regional District stated:

"“We greatly appreciate the funding for the green infrastructure upgrades at the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex. This supports our continued efforts to reduce the carbon footprint of our recreation facilities, and complements projects we’ve completed throughout our region such as the expansion of solar energy systems"

Canada/BC Hydro invest in decarbonization projects in BC

Courtesy of the Government of Canada:

Today, the Honourable Joyce Murray, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard; the Honourable Josie Osborne, B.C. Minister of Energy, Mines, and Low Carbon Innovation; and Chris O’Riley, President and CEO of BC Hydro, announced a joint investment of $32.7 million to support three decarbonization projects in British Columbia.

In Vancouver, this investment will support the decarbonization of the Creative Energy district energy steam plant. Existing gas boilers will be replaced with new electric steam boilers, and a 1.2km long underground powerline will be built from BC Hydro’s Murrin substation to the Beatty Street plant. Powered by clean energy delivered through the new connection to BC Hydro’s electricity grid, this investment will enable a significant reduction of the facility’s CO2 emissions and provide sufficient low-carbon energy for 12 million square feet of new commercial and residential development.

In Princeton, this funding will support the electrification of mine haul trucks at Copper Mountain Mine using a trolley assist system, and the replacement of several diesel-powered water pumps at the mine site with electrically-powered pumps. This project will reduce the mine’s CO2 emissions by 9,400 tonnes annually. Copper is a critical component of electric vehicles and clean energy technologies like wind and solar. The mining sector and the thousands of workers it employs in British Columbia and across the country will play a key role in building Canada’s green economy.

In the Cariboo Regional District, this funding will go towards fully electrifying all underground mine equipment at the proposed Cariboo Gold Project, a new underground gold mine and processing plant under development, and connect an existing substation to BC Hydro’s electricity grid, located near Wells BC. This investment will reduce the facilities’ CO2 emission by 22,700 tonnes annually.

Once completed, the two projects will help the mines to transition to cleaner energy sources and reduce emissions.

With 98% clean electricity, low-carbon electrification is a key part of the CleanBC plan to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and move British Columbia toward a clean energy future.

By investing in infrastructure, the Government of Canada is growing our country’s economy, building resilient communities, and improving the lives of Canadians.

Christmas Day 2022 Messages - Federal/BC Governments'

Courtesy of Canadian Prime Minister - Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau:

“Merry Christmas, everyone! “Like millions of Canadians, my family is excited to gather around the Christmas tree and spend some quality time together. It’s the time of year when things slow down a little bit, when Christmas movies – including Die Hard – are on repeat, when some of us keep an ear out for the sound of reindeer on the roof, and when we all take a moment to appreciate those who make our lives special. 

“This year, I’m thinking of Canadians who go the extra mile to make our country a better place. I’m thinking of members of the Canadian Armed Forces who are protecting our country and the values we share. I’m thinking of the doctors, nurses, and first responders who will be working throughout the holidays. And I’m thinking of everyday Canadians who find ways to show up for their friends and neighbours. “2022 was a challenging year, and for many this holiday season won’t be easy. But I’m confident that Canadians will continue to be there for each other in 2023 – because that’s just who we are. 

We show up for each other. And when times are tough, we stand together. “We’ve been through a lot as a country, but through it all Canadians have demonstrated the true meaning of generosity, kindness, and hope. For Christians, this is a special time where we celebrate the birth of Christ and the promise of peace and joy that comes with it. No matter your beliefs, these are values you can bring as you celebrate the season. 

 “So, as we come together under the twinkle of Christmas lights, as we share a glass of good cheer with friends and colleagues, as we welcome the cousins, uncles, aunts, nieces, and nephews we haven’t seen in so long, and as we celebrate those unique traditions that reflect Canada’s diversity – let’s remind ourselves how fortunate we are to live in a country of peace. “Canada is a country where families can live out their faith and be proud of the communities they represent. As we look ahead to the new year, let’s continue to stand together as we build a better future for all Canadians. “From my family to yours, Sophie, Xavier, Ella-Grace, Hadrien, and I wish you joy, health, love, and peace this holiday season. “Merry Christmas.”

Courtesy of BC Premier David Eby:

Today, many people in British Columbia, including a few at our home, and around the world will celebrate Christmas. 

Many will attend church services and rejoice in a message of peace and love. “Christmas is a time when people gather with friends and family to share food, exchange gifts and enjoy the many traditions of the season. 

“We have so much in British Columbia to be grateful for. I encourage British Columbians to reflect on the blessings in our lives, while also celebrating the season’s values of charity, compassion and generosity. “I wish everyone a very merry Christmas and happy holidays!”

B.C. secures national commitment on addressing repeat offending

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

Following two days of productive meetings with federal, provincial and territorial ministers responsible for justice and public safety, Murray Rankin, BC's Attorney General, and Mike Farnworth, BC's' Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, have secured a commitment from the federal government on addressing repeat offending countrywide.

“Everyone deserves to feel safe in their communities. Through conversations with my provincial and territorial counterparts, it’s clear that repeat offending and violent stranger attacks are a major concern right across the country as unintended consequences of recent federal law changes and subsequent Supreme Court decisions,” Rankin said. “These national changes have made it more difficult to hold violent offenders in custody while they are awaiting trial. The federal government is now aware of the seriousness of this issue across Canada and has committed to working with us to urgently address these issues.”

In response to B.C.’s advocacy for federal action, the federal, provincial and territorial ministers unanimously agreed to an urgent follow-up meeting with the ministers responsible to consider concrete national proposals to address bail provisions for violent offenders and the challenges of repeat offending. Ottawa has also committed to exploring financing options to better support provinces and territories in administering justice services. These efforts will also take into account shared commitments to reduce the over-incarceration of Indigenous Peoples and racialized people, and address the root causes of crime.

“We’re working across all fronts to make communities safer in B.C.,” Farnworth said. “We’re already moving forward on the expert recommendations we received earlier this month, but we’re hearing that these same challenges are happening right across the country. We can’t do this alone. I am glad the federal government is on board and willing to do their part by bringing concrete national proposals forward around bail provisions to help improve public safety for all Canadians.”

In December 2019, federal Bill C75 introduced amendments to the Criminal Code to address the disproportionate impacts of the criminal justice system on Indigenous Peoples and racialized people by giving primary consideration to the release of the accused at the earliest reasonable opportunity, on the least onerous conditions that are appropriate for the circumstance. Subsequent Supreme Court decisions have confirmed that pretrial detention is the exception and pretrial release on bail is the rule.

Earlier this fall, the Province, in co-operation with the BC Urban Mayors Caucus, received an independent investigative report about the challenges of repeat offending and unprovoked, violent stranger attacks that some communities are facing. Work on the recommendations is underway, including bringing back the successful Prolific Offender Management program, which reduced repeat offending by as much as 40% in its first year.

Learn More:

B.C. releases full expert investigation into repeat offending: 
https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2022AG0059-001469

Tŝilhqot’in Collaborative Emergency Management Agreement reached

Courtesy of the Goverment of BC:

Strengthening support and capacity for the Tŝilhqot’in National Government and its communities to be true partners and leaders in emergency management is the foundation of the renewed five-year tripartite Collaborative Emergency Management Agreement (CEMA).

The agreement enables the Tŝilhqot’in National Government and the governments of British Columbia and Canada to build on successes from the 2018 agreement while advancing reconciliation through the development of a respect-based, government-to-government framework for emergency and wildfire management.

The CEMA will create a structure for collaboration to ensure that Nations are at the table and informing decisions that affect them, their families and their territories while prioritizing the importance of cultural safety and Indigenous knowledge in wildfire and emergency management.

The agreement identifies and supports the implementation of policies and protocols to allow seamless and effective emergency management across all orders of government, including Indigenous, federal, provincial, regional and municipal governments. It also commits the parties to jointly explore and develop a proposal for an Indigenous-led regional emergency centre, a training facility and evacuation centres.

The three governments are committing to co-develop and collaboratively implement strategies to enhance the role and capacity of Tŝilhqot’in peoples in emergency management, including a review of infrastructure, operational requirements and other capacity needs.

With the signing of this agreement, the governments of British Columbia and Canada bring forward a renewed determination to deliver emergency services with Indigenous Peoples in a way that is culturally safe, efficient and effective.

The agreement reflects the common goal of the three governments to build trust and relationships in the spirit of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP).

Over the past five years, the parties have made progress related to establishing government-to-government agreements and protocols that provide a progressive framework for:

• emergency response;
• enhancing community capacity funding;
• improving financial reimbursement processes; and
• continuing to seek solutions to medium- and long-range infrastructure investments, such as fire halls.

From February 2017 to February 2022, Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) contributed $1.3 million to implement the agreement. With the signing of the new agreement, Canada has committed to ensuring this funding continues with $250,000 per year over five years. Additionally, ISC will provide $225,000 through its First Nation Infrastructure Fund to support the Tŝilhqot’in National Government and Tŝilhqot’in communities in emergency management community planning.

Since 2019, the Province, through the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund, has granted the Tŝilhqot’in National Government more than $836,000 to advance emergency support services, emergency operations centres and firefighting priorities. This year, Emergency Management BC provided an additional $280,000 to further priorities set under the Collaborative Emergency Management Agreement.

The work done with the Tŝilhqot’in National Government and Tŝilhqot’in communities is intended to inform work with other Indigenous governments and communities, as well as the broader commitment to improve overall emergency management in B.C. and throughout the country.

Quick Facts:

• The Tŝilhqot’in territory covers 6.65 million hectares (approximately 16 million acres) of land between the Fraser River and the Coast Mountains in west-central B.C.
• The Tŝilhqot’in National Government consists of the Tŝilhqot’in communities of Tl'etinqox (Anaham), ?Esdilagh (Alexandria), Yunesit'in (Stone), Tsi Deldel (Alexis Creek/Redstone), Tl'esqox (Toosey) and Xeni Gwet'in (Nemiah).
• The first-ever Collaborative Emergency Management Agreement was created with the Tŝilhqot’in National Government, the Province and the federal government in 2018 following the catastrophic 2017 fire season in the B.C. Interior.
• Canada and British Columbia are working with First Nation partners to develop a provincewide tripartite approach to emergency management that recognizes First Nations as full partners.
• Emergency Management BC is co-developing modernized emergency management legislation with Indigenous partners to ensure a new act supports more effective emergency management and aligns with the principles of UNDRIP.

Learn More:

Collective Emergency Management Agreement: https://www.tsilhqotin.ca/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/2022_Collaborative_Emergency_Management_Agreement.pdf

Tŝilhqot’in National Government: https://www.tsilhqotin.ca/

For information about BC Wildfire Service’s Cultural and Prescribed Fire Program, visit: https://prescribedfire.ca/

A backgrounder on this item can be viewed here