New Relationship

The Government of British Columbia is leading the nation in developing a New Relationship with First Nations and Aboriginal people. 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 of Public Safety and Solicitor General is working to support the New Relationship by:

• maintaining a First Nations Policing Program and supporting the operation of two First Nations Police Services, which are autonomous and independent of the RCMP;
• working toward eliminating inequities in basic fire and life safety services for Aboriginal people and fully integrating First Nations communities in the emergency management structure of the province;
• continuing to build on current successful victim service programs and meet the needs in First Nations communities through increased funding to ten existing programs and improved hours of operation and outreach;
• working to address the high level of violence against women and children;
• planning to develop 20 new community-based Aboriginal programs to address intergenerational violence;
• continuing to lead an inter-ministry working group that supports a broader framework and horizontal approach to Aboriginal corrections issues, and exploring corrections options that better respond to Aboriginal cultural needs; and,
• implementing initiatives to enhance the ability of Aboriginal groups to access gaming revenues and to increase awareness of and access to problem and responsible gambling programs and services within Aboriginal communities.