Prince George, B.C. – The Tsilhqot'in National Government and Esdilagh First Nation have walked away from negotiations for a new Economic Community Development Agreement with the province for the Gibraltar Mine near Williams Lake.

Talks appear stalled until Victoria "fundamentally changes its approach to engagement and benefit-sharing with First Nations on major projects," says TNG Tribal Chief Joe Alphonse.

He says talks have been ongoing and claims the Esdilagh (located 1 km from Gibraltar Mines)  "have been very open about wanting to get something done."

However Alphonse says they recently rejected an offer he says "wasn't very substantial," considering the risk in allowing mines on their traditional territory.

"They (Esdilagh) felt the risk was too high in light of what happened with the tailings breach at Mt. Polley."

In an email to 250 News the provincial government responded by saying "B.C. is committed to continue working with First Nations to support responsible resource development to the benefit of First Nations and all British Columbians. The Williams decision is a significant milestone that reinforces and validates B.C.'s commitment to avoid confrontation through negotiated settlements with First Nations."

They go on to say the decision has brought "greater clarity both on Aboriginal title and rights and on the province's rights and responsibilities" and that an ECDA was signed with the Soda Creek Indian Band in January and "the province will continue to negotiate to secure support for the Gibraltar Mine expansion."

The province also says that since 2006 they have been able to reach more than 200 agreements with First Nations through both the treaty process and other agreements such as revenue-sharing agreements.