The Tsartlip First Nation and B.C. Ferries met Friday in Brentwood Bay to start discussions on a relationship protocol agreement that will act as a framework for collaborating on areas of mutual interest.
Initial discussions between Tsartlip First Nation Chief Don Tom and Jill Sharland, interim president and CEO of B.C. Ferries, included topics such as the impact of ferry operations on Tsartlip’s aboriginal and treaty rights, and cultural recognition, employment and economic opportunities.
The First Nation and B.C. Ferries also agreed to discuss the process for securing Tsartlip’s prior consent for B.C. Ferries’ projects within their territory.
B.C. Ferries currently operates 11 terminals within Tsartlip territory.
The agreement is intended to build lines of communication as well as identify and explore potential opportunities to work together.
“This agreement signifies the acknowledgement of the impacts of B.C. Ferries’ activity in W̱JOȽEȽP [Tsartlip] Territory, on our land and waters, and our way of life,” Tom said in a statement. “This is a significant first step in reconciliACTION and upholding UNDRIP and we’re excited to build a relationship that works to ensure those impacts are one that positively impact our community.”
UNDRIP is the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
Sharland said B.C. Ferries is committed to building a lasting relationship with the First Nation based on “respect, co-operation and awareness.”
“We are committed to working with Indigenous peoples along coastal British Columbia and we recognize the Indigenous knowledge, cultures and traditions that enrich these beautiful lands and waters in which we operate.”
