Two Conservative MPs demand meeting with chief treaty negotiators

Two MPs have requested a meeting with the chief federal and provincial treaty negotiators regarding the ongoing treaty negotiations between the K’ómoks, Kitsumkalum, and Kitselas First Nations.

Aaron Gunn, MP for North Island–Powell River, and Ellis Ross, MP for Skeena–Bulkley Valley, signed a joint letter to the federal and provincial chief negotiators requesting greater clarity surrounding the negotiations and the broader implications of what the treaty agreements could mean for British Columbians and Canadians.

“These treaties carry significant implications not only for First Nations, but also homeowners, businesses, workers, and cities large and small across British Columbia,” said Gunn in a press release regarding the letter. “Canadians deserve transparency and certainty to know whether their private property rights and economic future are being fully protected. As many British Columbians feel like these discussions are being negotiated without the openness and public accountability they deserve, it is essential that people are given certainty on their private property rights in British Columbia.”

The full letter was posted on Gunn’s Facebook page. It was addressed to Frank Osendarp, Doug Waddell, Mark Lofthouse and Heinz Dyck. Osendarp and Waddell are the negotiators on behalf of the Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada, while the other two are negotiating on behalf of British Columbia’s Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation.

“There is also considerable public interest in how these negotiations may affect private property rights and broader economic certainty. It is important that these concerns be addressed transparently and that elected representatives have a clear understanding of how such matters are being considered within the negotiations,” reads the letter. “Accordingly, we request the opportunity for a briefing at your earliest convenience. We would be pleased to accommodate your schedules and can arrange a meeting either in person or virtually.”