March 25, 2024
(xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh)/Vancouver, B.C.) The First Nations Leadership Council (FNLC) is deeply disappointed with a statement made on March 22nd by the B.C. United Party that politicizes the basic human rights of First Nations and mischaracterizes the Haida Title Land Agreement (Agreement).
The B.C. United Caucus’ release of a “joint statement” on the Agreement is misleading and appears to be aimed at instilling fear and derailing a critically important milestone achieved by the Haida Nation and the Province. Contrary to the “joint statement”, the Agreement is entirely consistent with Canada’s ever-evolving constitutional framework and jurisprudence as they relate to the Crown-Indigenous relations and the rights of First Nations. It represents an innovative approach to advancing relations and reconciliation, balancing the interests of fee simple landowners on Haida Gwaii with the inherent and constitutionally protected title, rights, and jurisdiction of the Haida Nation, all with the express agreement and consent of the Haida Nation. The Agreement is progressive and will promote harmonious co-existence, partnership, and prosperity, and is a win for ALL British Columbians.