W̱JOȽEȽP (Tsartlip First Nation) Signs Relationship Protocol Agreement with BC Ferries
This December 9th, 2022, Chief and Council gathered at the W̱JOȽEȽP Admin Building to sign a historic agreement with BC Ferries.
In this agreement, BC Ferries is agreeing to uphold the principles protecting W̱JOȽEȽP’s inherent aboriginal and treaty rights protected under section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982, and the North Saanich Douglas Treaty of 1852. The agreement also affirms the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) as the framework for reconciliation between the two parties.
With 11 ferry terminals operating within W̱JOȽEȽP Territory, the operational impacts have been significant. The agreement outlines shared goals, including the following initial topics for discussion:
- Impacts of ferry operations on W̱JOȽEȽP (Tsartlip)’s aboriginal and treaty rights
- Cultural recognition, employment, and economic opportunities
- The process for securing Tsartlip’s free, prior, and informed consent for BC Ferries’ projects within W̱JOȽEȽP territory
- Fostering a sustainable, long term and respectful relationship
The agreement is intended to build lines of communication as well as identify and explore potential opportunities to work together collaboratively.
Shares Chief Don Tom.“This agreement signifies the acknowledgment of the impacts of BC Ferries’ activity in W̱JOȽEȽP Territory; on our land and waters, and our way of life. This is a significant first step in reconciliACTION and upholding UNDRIP and we’re excited to build a relationship that works to ensure those impacts are ones that positively impact our community”
“We are honoured to reach this agreement with the Tsartlip First Nation to build a lasting relationship based on respect, cooperation and awareness,” said Jill Sharland, BC Ferries’ Interim President & CEO. “We are committed to working with Indigenous peoples along coastal British Columbia and we recognize the indigenous knowledge, cultures and traditions that enrich these beautiful lands and waters in which we operate.”
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