B.C. secures mandate to negotiate consent-based decision-making process with Tilhqotin Nation for any mining activity at Teztan Biny

The Province of British Columbia has received a mandate to negotiate with the Tŝilhqot’in Nation on how to incorporate their consent into mining project decisions in the Teẑtan Area. The Ministry of Indigenous Relations and other relevant agencies have the necessary approvals to proceed under the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act. This initiative builds on existing agreements that require Tŝilhqot’in consent for any reviewable mining project in the region. Currently, no specific mining projects are on the table, but the Province is preparing for future considerations. Section 7 of the Declaration Act facilitates negotiations for consent-based agreements aimed at reconciliation, involving local governments and potentially affected parties.

The Province will consult various stakeholders, including the Cariboo Regional District and the Mining Association of British Columbia, to ensure diverse input. These discussions are critical for managing the environmental and social impacts of future mining activities. The collaborative approach aims to balance economic development with Indigenous rights and environmental stewardship.