From the Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation website:
The Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation helps integrate First Nation perspectives and interests in land-use planning and resource-related activities taking place across government. The Province develops land and resource agreements with First Nations and other parties to enhance economic opportunities, support social development, and in some cases, support the negotiation of treaties with First Nations.
It is very important to support other ministries in efforts to address the interests of First Nations through the creation of lasting land and resource agreements. Working with First Nations, government can help build greater economic certainty for all British Columbians.
Clayoquot Sound Interim Measures Extension Agreement (PDF 956KB)
In 2008, the Province provided $700,000 for the Central Region Chiefs’ Administration and the Central Region Board, a joint BC/First Nations body that provides First Nations and local government input into the management of the lands and resources of Clayoquot Sound. The board reviews resource development plans, applications, permits, decisions, reports or recommendations made by ministries, agencies or panels. The Hawiih (Hereditary Chiefs) of the Tla–o–qui–aht, Ahousaht, Hesquiaht, Toquaht and Ucluelet First Nations and the Province signed the first interim measures agreement in 1994.
Blueberry River First Nations Resource Agreements
The Province of British Columbia and the Blueberry River First Nations have signed four land and resource management agreements. These agreements outline how the Province and the Blueberry River First Nations will work in the resource sectors together.
Williston Reservoir – Bennett Dam Agreement in Principle
The Province of British Columbia and BC Hydro have reached Agreements in Principle (AIP) with the Tsay Keh Dene Band and the Kwadacha Nation that will address the impacts of flooding from the Williston Reservoir on these First Nations in the Peace River Valley region.
Blueberry River First Nations Economic Benefits Agreement (PDF 11MB)
The agreement builds a foundation for Blueberry River First Nations members to share in the benefits of resource activity and play a greater role in the regional economy. The continued growth of the energy, mineral and petroleum resource sectors in the region contribute significantly to the Province’s ability to create jobs for both the local community and First Nations members.
Treaty 8 First Nations Economic Benefits Agreement (PDF 1.01MB)
The Province and chiefs of four Treaty 8 First Nations signed an economic benefits agreement (EBA) that will provide a share of financial benefits from natural resource development on part of the First Nations’ territory to their communities and enhance land-use collaboration in B.C.’s northeast region.
Upper Similkameen Indian Band Mining and Minerals Protocol Agreement (PDF 8.12MB)
The Mining and Minerals Protocol Agreement with the Upper Similkameen Indian Band establishes an effective means for communication and information-sharing between the Province and the band. The agreement also ensures that mining development will be done in an environmentally and culturally sustainable manner. It also provides effective regulation of mineral resource development and allows the Province to assist the band in developing the capacity to participate in, and benefit from, mining activities within its territory.