A Vancouver Island First Nation and a forestry company will engage in dialogue to identify areas of joint economic opportunity while safeguarding the environment.
The Pacheedaht First Nation, located near Port Renfrew, and Teal Jones have agreed to identify specific forestry, business, commercial, and employment opportunities within the NationB次元官网网址檚 traditional territories and pursue them through joint working agreements.
The deal includes developing a world-class integrated resource management plan, known as an IRMP, to ensure responsible stewardship of at-risk species and ecosystems within the NationB次元官网网址檚 traditional territories.
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The memorandum of understanding, or MOU, covers an area known as Tree Forest Licence 46. The block of Crown land, located between Lake Cowichan and Port Renfrew, has been the centre of controversy for two years as forest activists fight to save the old-growth forest known as Fairy Creek.
Pacheedaht First Nation Chief Jeff Jones said Teal Jones has consistently demonstrated respect for his communityB次元官网网址檚 rights and values.
B次元官网网址淭he MOU will build upon our existing relationship and commits us to work together to identify and pursue business endeavours, create new employment and training opportunities for our community members, and ensure our way of life and environment are protected for future generations through an IRMP,B次元官网网址� Jones said.
In addition, the deal commits both sides to job and training opportunities in forestry with Pacheedaht First Nation members, recognizes the integrity of forest resources, cultural heritage value and the environment and contributes to the long-term stability of the regional and local economy, mainly through forestry.
B次元官网网址淭his agreement makes us both stronger,B次元官网网址� said Dick Jones, Teal Jones president and co-owner.
B次元官网网址淲e have long believed businesses have a critical role to play in reconciliation with First Nations on whose traditional territories they work. This agreement reflects our commitment to the Pacheedaht people and to working side-by-side with them to create lasting prosperity through responsible forestry.B次元官网网址�
B次元官网网址� with files from Black Press Media and The Canadian Press
B次元官网网址�
editor@sookenewsmirror.com
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