KITIMAT – Achieving improved relationships between First Nations, industry and governments, and support for development of the liquefied natural gas (LNG) industry in northern B.C.: these were the key themes at the recent Nation2Nation Community Forum held at the Haisla Recreation Centre and Kitimat Valley Institute in Kitimat.
Haisla Nation Chief Councilor Ellis Ross and District of Kitimat Mayor Phil Germuth cohosted the forum which showcased the Haisla Nation and District of Kitimat’s support for economic development and offered perspectives on working together to make new projects a reality. Premier of British Columbia Christy Clark was a keynote speaker at the event.
“The development of LNG represents a chance to change everything here in northern BC,” said Premier Clark. “Working together, we can create thousands of jobs, opportunity for generations to come, and give First Nations the means to shape their future like never before.”
Over 150 people attended the two day forum which focused on First Nations, industry and governments working collaboratively on major projects and sustainable development, especially development related to B.C.’s emerging LNG industry. Mayor Bill Streeper of the Northern Rockies Regional Municipality told the crowd “Development of an LNG industry for British Columbia is the only real economic opportunity we have in Northeast BC right now. Our community of Fort Nelson is suffering with people walking away from their homes because they can’t pay their mortgage due to not having a job. We need an LNG industry for BC and we need it now.”
Chief Councilor Ellis Ross added “Our community members enjoyed some new job opportunities with recent expansion of an industrial facility in our territory but that project is complete now and we’re just waiting for one of the LNG projects to move forward. It would mean our community members living away from our territory could come home and raise their families here. Our community would realize new revenues and our community members would have new job opportunities. LNG is critical to a positive future for the Haisla Nation.”
Mayor Phil Germuth stated “Just one of the proposed LNG projects in our area would mean new families moving to Kitimat, new revenues and a chance to improve our infrastructure and amenities. The District of Kitimat is ready and willing to work collaboratively with the Haisla Nation to realize these new opportunities and strengthen our communities.”
“We want to ensure all British Columbians benefit from future economic development whether it is through mining or forestry, or clean energy, such as liquefied natural gas,” said John Rustad, Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation. “Building strong partnerships between government, industry and First Nations will be vital in achieving that goal.”
The community forum provided a platform for First Nations leaders, government representatives, industry leaders and others in the community to discuss and learn how all partners can work together on sustainable resource development and major projects in smaller Northwest communities.