Simpcw First Nation calls Prince George-area treaty into question
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PRINCE GEORGE — A North Thompson based First Nation is raising concerns over the recent signing of the Lheidli T’enneh’s Final Agreement.
Simpcw Chief Nathan Matthew says the Treaty includes territory that has been claimed by his First Nation. He says the Treaty shouldn’t have been finalized until encroachments on Simpcw land, water and resources had been resolved. “Canada, the Province and Lheidli T’enneh must address our concerns before proceeding with this Treaty,” said Matthew. “Simpcw must be able to rely upon our lands and resources and must be able to exercise our right to make decisions that protect our lands and resources for this and future generations.”
The Simpcw have claimed a territory that stretches from Kakwa provincial park in the north, west to Grande Cache, Alberta, and south through the Cariboo Mountains to Barriere. Communities within the area include McBride, Valemount, Jasper, Blue River, and Clearwater. The land in question is located through the Robson Valley and south through Valemount.
By ignoring the Simpcw’s title and rights, Matthew says the federal and provincial governments are ignoring the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s calls to action. “Before this Treaty is finalized, any encroachment on our lands, waters and resources, must be resolved,” said Matthew.
