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VICTORIA – The Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum
Resources, McLeod Lake Indian Band, and the Oil and Gas Commission signed a
consultation agreement that will increase certainty around consultation
processes for oil and gas development, Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources
Minister Richard Neufeld announced.
“This
agreement strengthens the partnership between the McLeod Lake Indian Band and
government,” said Neufeld. “The McLeod Lake Indian Band is an active
participant in oil and gas development, which helps create a climate of
certainty for investment that has boosted the sector’s success.”
“The
Oil and Gas Agreement provides for continued consultation among the oil and gas
sector, the Province and the McLeod Lake Indian Band. We hope in the near
future to see similar types of agreements in other sectors,” said Chief Alec
Chingee. “We need to continue to ensure that our treaty rights are respected
and protected, and we hope to benefit from the economic activity in our
territory which is vital to the Province’s interests, but must provide a brighter
future for our people as well.”
The
agreement defines the roles, responsibilities and processes for consultation on
oil and gas applications, which will provide all parties with greater certainty
in decision making. This agreement replaces the 2002 consultation agreement
between the Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources, McLeod Lake
Indian Band and Oil and Gas Commission. The agreement is for a three-year term,
with provisions for extension until April 30, 2013.
“Chief
Chingee continues to take a progressive approach in ensuring the interests of
McLeod Lake Indian Band are highlighted while ensuring a benefit to the
community,” said Alex Ferguson, commissioner of the BC Oil and Gas Commission.
“The commission looks forward to a continued productive relationship with the
McLeod Lake community through this new agreement.”
The Province is building a
new relationship with First Nations founded on mutual respect, recognition and
reconciliation. British Columbia will only fulfill its full potential when First Nations
are full partners in the province’s socio-economic development.
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contact: |
Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources 250 952-0628 250 213-6934 (cell)
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BC Oil and Gas Commission 250 261-2097 250 793-7595 (cell)
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McLeod Lake Indian Band 250 384-9550
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