First nations hail new agreement to deal with emergency-management

Apr 16, 2018 | 7:12 AM

WILLIAMS LAKE —  Chief Joe Alphonse says an agreement signed between the Tsilhqot’in Nation, British Columbia and the federal government is an important step toward recognition of the First Nation’s authority.

     The emergency-management agreement is the first of its kind and recognizes the First Nation as a full partner in wildfire response.

     Through the agreement, the three governments will work together to identify best practices and build the First Nation community’s capacity to manage emergencies.

     Alphonse says he’d like to see a culturally-appropriate First Nations evacuation centre established, as well as a training facility.