New Relationship

The Government of British Columbia is leading the nation in developing a New Relationship with First Nations and aboriginal peoples. Guided by principles of trust, and by recognition and respect of First Nations' rights and title, we are building a stronger and healthier relationship between government and aboriginal people. By working together, we will bring tangible social and economic benefits to aboriginal people across the Province and narrow the gap between aboriginal people and other British Columbians.

The ministry is working to support the New Relationship through the development of effective partnerships and engagement processes with First Nations. Partnerships are an important mechanism for a shared-stewardship approach to protecting the environment and supporting healthy communities. Collaborative management agreements with First Nations are an example of effective partnering. They combine aboriginal knowledge, local knowledge and scientific information to facilitate improved management decisions. The ministry is tracking its progress in building these partnerships. As of March 2006, there are sixteen Parks Collaborative Management Agreements and five Regional Fish and Wildlife Processes in place with First Nations, with additional agreements in draft stage. Other examples of effective partnering include the Conservation Officer Service partnership with the Tsay Keh Dene First Nation to protect and manage wildlife in northern B.C.'s remote communities.

On-going dialogue between the ministry and First Nations has identified and confirmed mutual objectives and a common understanding of long-term interests. The ministry continues to foster positive relationships with First Nations through the development of effective consultation and strategic engagement processes on important program and policy development. Examples include the Interim First Nations Consultation Guidelines under the Integrated Pest Management Act and the development of Water Use Plans for BC Hydro hydroelectric facilities.

The Ministry of Environment is also working on new, innovative initiatives and engaging other provincial agencies and external partners on projects such as training First Nations' communities to increase their ability to respond to and recover from environmental emergencies, such as oil spills.