HIGH-GRADE NI-CU-PT-PD-ZN-CR-AU-V-TI DISCOVERIES IN THE "RING OF FIRE"
NI 43-101 Update (September 2012): 11.1 Mt @ 1.68% Ni, 0.87% Cu, 0.89 gpt Pt and 3.09 gpt Pd and 0.18 gpt Au (Proven & Probable Reserves) / 8.9 Mt @ 1.10% Ni, 1.14% Cu, 1.16 gpt Pt and 3.49 gpt Pd and 0.30 gpt Au (Inferred Resource)
Message: OT- B.C. First Nations Revenue Sharing Agreement ..An Example to Follow
It is becoming increasingly clear that the First Nations across Canada are not opposed to development. We have heard time and time again that as long as it is done in a responsible way that respects their lands, culture and the environment that they are more than happy to get onboard. In the article below I found it refreshing to hear that revenues were being shared with the First Nations across the province of B.C., and that everyone stood to benefit from the revenue stream generated from gaming.
Although the mining industry seems to work a little differently from that of gaming commission I can see a lot of similiarities where the benefits received by communities are the same. Whether they are Indigenous, or not. There will always be the worry of what other elements the money may bring, but in the end the common good of all is what every Indigenous community should focus on. I just hope that the First Nations of Ontario are watching provinces like B.C. and Manitoba, where they contiune to show examples where the Indeginous people of this country are embracing the changes necessary to give their people the prosperity and self-governance they deserve.
B.C. budget: First Nations to share in $3B revenue deal
Andrew Duffy / Times Colonist
FEBRUARY 20, 2019 12:07 PM
B.C.’s First Nations are calling a new revenue-sharing agreement a major step toward establishing trust with the provincial government and toward taking more control over their communities.
The agreement, which will see the province share $3 billion in gaming revenue over the next 25 years — $250,000 to $2 million for each community each year — will give First Nations more say in where investment is made in their communities.
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“The relationship [with government] has changed, no doubt,” said Grand Chief Joe Hall, former chairman of the B.C. First Nations Gaming Commission. “In the past, [government] never had the appetite to do this. For this government to actually start the process … was excellent.”
Hall said it marks a significant step toward reconciliation.
“I absolutely believe to get reconciliation negotiations happening, there has to be a level of trust, and we spun our wheels with the previous government for many years,” he said. “When you lose that trust level, it’s very difficult to bring up any topics. [Trust] wasn’t there.”
Hall said apart from what the money will mean for First Nations around the province, it “bodes well for future topics and negotiations” with the government.
“We are very happy that this government was able to come to a conclusion and address the gaming questions we have had for many years — going on two decades,” he said.
The deal will allow First Nations to determine their own priorities for the funding.
The money can be used for a broad spectrum of things, including health and wellness, housing, infrastructure, training, environmental protection, economic development and governance. It means they can respond to crises in their communities or have the flexibility to take advantage of economic opportunities.
It also means they have a steady income they can rely on and plan for.
“It is enough to make a difference. This funding will have an impact and it’s kind of a starting point in dealing with phase two,” Hall said, noting they want to discuss gaming on reserve land. “It’s a good start.”
“This agreement will change lives for the better in every corner of the province,” said Premier John Horgan in a statement.
“It means consistent, predictable and sustainable funding to support critical things every government needs, like improving infrastructure, implementing long-term planning, and pursuing development opportunities to address the economic, social and cultural needs of Indigenous peoples on the lands that have belonged to them since time began.”
The deal is also a step toward reconciliation, Finance Minister Carole James noted, as it ensures the resources of the province are shared in a way that advances self-government and self-determination.
The First Nations Gaming Commission will create a limited partnership to manage the funding. It will be overseen by a First Nations-appointed board of directors.
Last year, the province netted $1.4 billion in gaming revenue.
All B.C. First Nations will receive base funding, with additional money given out based on population and remote geography.
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