By Ashley Legassic

Premier signs agreement with Nicola Valley First Nations

Mar 20, 2019 | 1:44 PM

MERRITT, B.C. — Plans for the old Merritt vistor centre lands were at the forefront of a meeting today between B.C. premier John Horgan and five Nicola Valley First Nations.

The province says in a news release that the First Nations and the government are committing to work together on regional economic development as the nations advance their plans for the old visitor centre lands at Gateway 286.

Horgan and the chiefs signed a protocol agreement in Coldwater today (March 20), focused on supporting economic opportunities.

“Working with the Province and our neighbouring Nations gives us unity and strength to work towards improving prosperity for our region,” said Lower Nicola Indian Band Chief Aaron Sumexheltza. “This is another step towards implementing positive economic change for all of our members and Nicola Valley residents.”

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In recent years, the Nicola First Nations have worked together and with the provincial government on economic and environmental issues, including a March 2018 memorandum of understanding to collaboratively manage the Nicola watershed.

The provincial government’s 2019 budget includes nearly $100 million per year in gaming revenue to be shared with First Nations, the release states, adding that this means every First Nation community in the province is estimated to be eligible for revenue in the range of roughly $250,000 to $2 million annually to support community priorities determined by the First Nations themselves.

The Nicola First Nations’ application to acquire the lands necessary for the Gateway 286 project is moving through a decision-making process by the province that will include an assessment and technical review, along with consultation with neighbouring First Nations and stakeholder engagement.

Should the transfer of lands proceed, the province says it’s committed to supporting the successful development of the project.