First Nations leadership Council – On the second anniversary of British Columbia passing Bill 41, the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (Declaration Act)…the Province has yet to transform legislative processes to ensure new and existing laws are consistent with the UN Declaration, has not substantially and equitably advanced shared decision-making agreements with title and rights holders, and has not concluded an action plan – all obligations under its own law.

Certainly, the ongoing COVID- 19 pandemic and recurring climate change emergencies such as flooding, and wildfires have significantly impacted effective implementation of the Declaration Act. At the same time, it is the disproportionate negative impacts of these events on First Nations governments and citizens that further reinforces the need for Indigenous co-development of provincial policy and legislation, and shared decision- making arrangements between Indigenous Governing Bodies and the provincial government.

We look forward to working with the Province on a priority basis to establish a dedicated Secretariat to ensure all new legislation and policies are consistent with the UN Declaration, and involves consultation and cooperation with Indigenous leadership,” stated Regional Chief Terry Teegee, BC Assembly of First Nations.