Williams Lake Indian Band among eight to join First Nations Land Management Regime
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"I would like to congratulate these eight First Nations from British Columbia on being selected to join the First Nations Land Management Regime," said Minister Moore. "Assuming greater control over the management of their reserve lands, environment and resources will enable each of these First Nations to seize new economic development opportunities."
The First Nations include: Aitchelitz, Haisla Nation, Shuswap, Skowkale, St. Mary's, Stz'uminus, Williams Lake Indian Band, and Yakweakwioose.
Ann Louie, Chief of the Williams Lake Indian Band is quoted as saying, "Williams Lake Indian Band is immensely excited about the prospect of being added to the First Nations Lands Management Initiative (FNLMI). We are ready for greater autonomy, and assuming control over the management of our lands, resources and environment is a critical step forward. We are certain that participating in the FNLMI will increase efficiency, inspire investor confidence, and open doors to greater economic opportunity for our people."
"The First Nations Land Management Regime has a proven track record of increasing economic development opportunities for First Nations," said Minister Duncan. "Together with First Nations organizations and communities, we are working to build a future in which First Nations are self-sufficient and prosperous, making their own decisions, managing their own affairs and making strong contributions to the country as a whole."
Three of the First Nations - Aitchelitz, Skowkale and Yakweakwioose - will enter the Regime as one entity, under the Sto'lo Tribal Council, sharing funding for the development and operation of their new land code.
"I am extremely excited and elated that 18 new First Nations who are well-deserving will be added as signatories to the Framework Agreement on First Nation Land Management," said Chief Robert Louie, Chair of the Lands Advisory Board and the Chief of Westbank First Nation. "This is an investment in First Nations that will bring significant returns to these First Nations and to the entire Canadian economy. For First Nations to be recognized as governing jurisdictions with their own decision making powers is the desire of First Nation communities across this country."
Today's announcement is a result of a commitment made in Budget 2011. The Government of Canada committed to reallocating up to $20 million over two years to respond to the growing interest from First Nation leaders to participate in the First Nations Land Management Regime.
Improving economic opportunities for Aboriginal people is a priority for the Government of Canada. In June 2009, the Government of Canada released the Federal Framework for Aboriginal Economic Development (FFAED), which represents a fundamental change to how the federal government supports Aboriginal economic development. The FFAED emphasizes strengthening entrepreneurship, enhancing the value of Aboriginal assets, and forging new and effective partnerships to maximize economic development potential of Aboriginal Canadians.
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