First Nations Engagement
First Nations engagement is a key priority when planning for wastewater treatment in the Core Area, The CRD is eager to work with its First Nations neighbours in a meaningful way on the project to seek their input, to apply their input to avoid problems and to seek opportunities to work together. In December 2008, the CRD submitted an interim report to the Minister of Environment which includes an Appendix on the steps needed for good consultation and engagement with local First Nations, including the Esquimalt, Songhees and Beecher Bay Nations.
Consultation Agreements
Consultation agreements have been signed by the Songhees, Beecher Bay and Esquimalt Nations, the Province and the CRD. These agreements lay out the responsibilities and steps for engagement for the CRD, the Provincial Government and participating First Nations. The consultation agreements state that the province is responsible for the consultation process and that it will delegate certain aspects of that process to the CRD.
2009 Goals
In 2009 the CRD plans to accomplish the following goals:
- Begin the information sharing process in earnest with Songhees, Esquimalt and
Beecher Bay Nations on project design and siting work - Resolve issues, as possible, and refer those not resolvable within the CRD legislative
mandate to the provincial or federal government - Provide information to other interested First Nations not directly affected by the project.
It is important to recognize that consultation and engagement with First Nations is not an endeavor that can be accomplished by simply setting a deadline. Given the complexities of the wastewater treatment project, the legal requirement and genuine desire to engage and consult with First Nations in a meaningful way, and the number of other important endeavors taxing these First Nation’s capacity, this pursuit can be expected to be an important element of the wastewater treatment project.
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