Williams Lake, B.C. – The Cariboo Regional  District   (CRD) is  working towards strengthening  relationships with the Tsilhqot’in National Government (TNG).

“I cannot stress enough the importance of our governments and people working together to find benefits for all residents of the Cariboo Chilcotin,” says CRD Chair Al Richmond. “We will continue working together to identify areas of common interest and improve on past performances, while gaining a better understanding of our cultures and governance models; this is what building communities together is all about.”

The two  governing bodies  met  this week to share  background information  with the  TNG presenting  information on the  declared Aboriginal title area and the ongoing negotiations with the Province of British Columbia.  The Regional District offered information  on is structure, mandate and governance.

The two  groups also discussed  services already  provided within the declared  Aboriginal title area including land use planning,  landfills,  invasive plant management, emergency services and economic development.

“There are many different layers to each government working within the Cariboo Chilcotin region,” states TNG Vice-Chair Chief Roger William. “Being knowledgeable of our histories, mandates and practices is necessary for each organization to function appropriately. The recognition of Aboriginal title within the region has demonstrated the increasing need for cooperation and collaboration between all levels of government.”

The two governments plan to work together to identify opportunities to share or grow services as well as  collaborate on  communications, land-use planning, workshops, economic development and emergency planning.

Another meeting between the TNG and the CRD is planned to occur within the Spring of 2016 to follow up on action items identified on January 11th and to further define future objectives.