Prince George, B.C. – John Rustad, BC’s Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation, says revitalizing partnerships between First Nations and the provincial government was a major focus in 2014.

Noting the government has “a moral and legal obligation to work with Aboriginal communities to close the gap on quality of life indicators” like health, education and employment, Rustad says the government took many steps in that direction.

He says that included “expanded partnerships with First Nations in terms of developing B.C.’s liquefied natural gas industry.”

For example the Nisga’s Nation signed benefit-sharing agreements with the province and TransCanada for the proposed Prince Rupert Gas Transmission pipeline project (PRGT) while the Skin Tyee, Nee Tahi Buhn and the Wet’suwet’en First Nations signed pipeline benefits agreements for the proposed PRGT and the Coastal GasLink pipeline projects.

He says negotiations are underway with First Nations along proposed pipeline routes with additional agreements expected in 2015.

Along with such agreements Rustad says “there will also be new environmental stewardship and skills training opportunities.”

For example he says in October he signed an agreement with the BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres “to support skills training and employment opportunities focused on Aboriginal people and youth living in urban areas.”

Rustad also notes the Supreme Court of Canada’s Tsilhqot’in decision will help provide greater clarity on Aboriginal title and the province’s rights and responsibilities.

Looking ahead to this year he also expects more “reconciliation progress” through the B.C. Treaty process noting “a number of treaty tables are expected to sign Agreements-in-Principle.”