Dease Lake, B.C. – Another Northern BC First Nation has begun the process of deciding whether or not to approve agreements related to the Northwest Transmission Line.

 

Members of the Tahltan Nation started voting Friday on deals hammered out with BC Hydro and the BC Government that could see the project advance through its traditional territory along with the prospect of jobs and economic development.

"This is an exciting time for the Tahltan Nation. We are making a pivotal decision for current and future generations, and it’s a decision we must make as a Nation. We need to come together and decide collectively whether to approve the agreements,” says Annita McPhee, Tribal Chair of the Tahltan Central Council. ” McPhee is urging all Tahltans to get out and vote.

 

Prior to the vote, there was extensive community outreach with Tahltan members across the province, those in Whitehorse, and Alberta which has led to over 2500 members registering to vote. The Tahltan Central Council says the goal was to make sure that members had a chance to have their say in negotiations, maximize benefits, and minimize impacts. Band Council Chief Rick Mclean says the leadership has reached an agreement for their nation by their nation.

 

Voting is being conducted online, by telephone, and at polling stations in Dease Lake, Iskut, and Telegraph Creek until April 15^th. Results of the vote will be announced April 16^th.

 

The Tahltan vote follows Nisga’a First Nation Legislature approval in March of the NTL benefit agreements  and route through its traditional territory.