Ottawa, Ontario (May 11, 2010) — The Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians issued the following statement today: “I want to extend my congratulations to the President of the Nisga'a Lisims Government, Mr. Mitchell Stevens, and the Nisga'a people on the 10th anniversary of the effective date of the Nisga'a Final Agreement.
This landmark agreement demonstrates the benefits that modern treaties can bring to First Nation people and their neighbours – building a solid foundation for renewed and lasting relationships and brighter futures for all concerned.
Under the treaty, the Nisga'a Lisims Government has been able to take advantage of new opportunities in the Nass Valley in areas such as forestry, eco-tourism, pine mushroom harvesting and the service sector. Since the treaty was signed, there have also been significant improvements in unemployment rates and high school graduation rates. Canada shares in the pride of the Nisga'a Lisims Government and the Nisga'a Nation for the progress they have made and the strong relationship we have built together along the way.
The Nisga'a Final Agreement marked a new beginning for the Nisga'a people and the Nass Valley as a whole. As the work to implement this groundbreaking treaty continues, Canada remains committed to working with the Nisga'a and the Province of British Columbia to advance our shared goals.”
For more information, please contact:
Minister's Office
Office of the Honourable Chuck Strahl
Press Secretary
819-997-0002
