The Elk Valley region in British Columbia is home to several coal mines and proposed developments. NWP Coal Canada and the Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi'it, also known as the Tobacco Plains Indian Band, have reached a deal that will give the First Nation the power to act as a 'regulator and reviewer' of the proposed Crown Mountain coal mine near Elkford, B.C.
The mine would produce coking coal, which is predominantly used for making steel. The project was first proposed in 2010, and construction could begin in 2025. Federal and provincial regulators are currently reviewing the possible environmental impacts of the project. "It's not the be all to end all, but it's definitely that beginning step and opportunity to do things different and it is a one-of-a-kind environmental assessment process and consent agreement," she said.'It's a new era for natural resource development'NWP Coal Canada and the Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi'it have struck a rare deal to give the community the power to veto a proposed mining project, which is a big step forward, says Chief Heidi Gravelle.
Mistake.
'Baines...described in an interview with CBC news how those benefit agreements are similar to buying a First Nation’s support,since compensation is given only if the first nation provides its backing...He said companies are basically asking the community to'bury their concerns.”
KyleBakx This is consistent with the implications of BCDRIPA and the future of legal pluralism. It is just the beginning...
Why would anyone be opening a coal mine? I thought we were in a climate crisis?
Wampum issues. Put the right wam in the right palm and it all goes smoothly .
So will depend on the size of the cheque if it gets passed or not?
Coal is bad for the environment unless it has FN ok? We need to find some agreeable folk in Fort McMurray!
Funny the media never seems to care about the majority of First Nations who gain employment or revenue from these projects.
This woke company gave them veto power, hopefully they use it.
Hopefully, this new agreement giving the community the power to veto a proposed mining project, will not set a precedent for how natural resources projects are cancelled and killed in Canada.
If 1st nations are going to start running this country, then why do we need Trudeau and his posse of federal schemers?
I thought our Supreme Court already gave them that power
German Mud Wizard vetoing a coal company in Germany. cdnpoli
Great news!