The BC government and Blueberry River First Nation have signed a historic agreement, giving the nation more say in how their land will be used in natural resource projects.
The agreement is in response to a June 2021 Supreme Court ruling that the province violated the country’s treaty rights by allowing development that, over the years, negatively impacted to their land, north of Fort St. John.
The agreement sets out compensation, compensation and a way forward for new natural resource projects. It also sets limits on new oil and gas projects. Wildlife protection measures will be implemented using the expertise of Blueberry River First Nation.
A process is being developed in which both the country and the province will make land use decisions. BC also agreed to protect the old-growth forest in the area and reduce logging. Agreement to restore state rights as set forth in Treaty 8.
There is an expectation that other countries may also sign similar agreements.
This is a developing story on CTV News. More to come.
