Engaging First Nations is a priority at MABC

Over the past year MABC staff and directors have met with representatives of more than ten First Nations including Ktunaxa, Xat’sull, Upper Similkameen, Tahltan, Carrier Sekani, Nisga’a, Gitanyow, Gitxsan and others as well as representatives of the BC Assembly of First Nations, Union of BC Indian Chiefs and the First Nations Summit. MABC and our member companies are committed to engaging First Nations in the spirit of a new relationship which includes mutual respect and responsibilities. MABC is actively developing new tools to improve First Nations relationships and movement in such areas as resource revenue sharing, consultation and accommodation.

Challenges

In 2007 a number of challenges emerged with regards to First Nations relations:

• The change of status of the Galore Creek JV in conjunction with the impending closure of Eskay Creek created employment pressures and concerns for First Nations in that region.
• The Kemess North panel hearings also created a degree of contention between the sector and relevant First Nations. The MABC is working to address these particular matters.

Relationship Building Opportunities On a more positive note, relationship building meetings took place with a diverse range of First Nations including the Ktunaxa, the Hupacasath, the Upper Similkameen Indian Band, the Nisga’a, Tahltan representatives and others.

In conjunction with AME BC, the MABC participated in a number of round table dinners and discussions with First Nations leadership. Dinners took place in Prince George, Terrace, Cranbrook and in Vancouver.

The MABC also participates regularly in "Mining 101" sessions sponsored by the Government of British Columbia. These sessions are designed to provide First Nations community members with a basic understanding of the industry and the roles of the various players including the MABC.