B.C. and Kitselas First Nation sign new agreement for environmental assessment process

VICTORIA — The Kitselas First Nation is taking more control of the environmental assessment process through a new agreement with the Government of British Columbia.

“The provision of specific space within the agreement to integrate our community’s values into impact assessments is as significant achievement for our nation,” said Chief Glenn Bennett of the Kitselas First Nation in a news release.

The Environmental Assessment Agreement, as its called in the release from the province, is designed to help the nation conduct efficient, transparent and rigorous environmental assessments for projects in their territory.

The agreement also covers projects that may affect the interests of the nation.

The agreement strengthens the ability for the nation to provide consent for projects consistent with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

“Through its implementation, this agreement will strengthen our relationship with the Environmental Assessment Office and Kitselas is excited to collaboratively build on what has been achieved,” Bennett said.