What has been described as a historic agreement was announced last week as the Federal Government outlined its plans towards funding for access to commercial fishing opportunities for eight Coastal First Nations in British Columbia.
The Collaborative Fisheries Governance initiative will feature a community based fisheries model which combined with the Coastal First Nations fisheries will provide jobs in the home communities for the eight participants in the program.
Among those set to participate are the Haida, Heiltsuk, Kitasoo/Xai’xais, Metlakatla, Nuxalk, Wuikinuxv, Gitga’at and, Gitxaala Nations.
Chief Marilyn Slett, the President of the Coastal First Nations outlined how the new arrangement will provide for a significant say in how the fishery moves forward.
“Through this agreement, our people will have a significant say in the management of the oceans while at the same time have the ability to once again participate in the maritime economy. With this new arrangement and cooperative approach we expect to work together with the Federal Government to advance our common goal of caring for the ocean.”
The initiative which is known as the CFN Fisheries Resources Reconciliation Agreement is a first of its kind arrangement in BC to establish a collaborative fisheries management process by Canada and First Nations in the BC North and Central Coast, and Haida Gwaii.
The governance model between DFO and the CFN member nations includes a collaborative engagement process with a wide range of stakeholders in British Columbia and consultation with other First Nations.
Bernadette Jordan, the Minster of Fisheries Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard noted how the agreement will serve to create new economic opportunities for First Nations communities in the region.
“This historic agreement demonstrates Canada’s commitment to reconciliation and to reviewing our relationship with Indigenous peoples based on rights, respect, cooperation and partnership. Working together, we’ll create new economic opportunities for First Nations communities in the North and Central Coast of British Columbia, and Haida Gwaii, now and for generations to come.” |
| The participants in last weeks Community Based Fishery announcement between the Federal Government and Eight Coastal First Nations |
In their announcement of Friday, the two parties noted how this amended agreement sets out the next steps to be taken in planning for commercial community-based fisheries encouraging a greater flexibility in community participation and greater access to fishing licenses and quota.
It also includes support for the CFN member Nations to make investments in gear, vessels, licences, operations, and infrastructure.
The program has been two years in the making, first signed by seven members of the Coastal First Nations in July of 2019, with the Haida Nation signing on in September of that year.
The full announcement from last week can be reviewed here.
More items of note related to the fishery on the North Coast, Central Coast and Haida Gwaii can be explored here.
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