K’ómoks First Nation is marking what it calls a historic milestone, as the Province of British Columbia has introduced the K’ómoks Treaty Act in the Legislature, a major step toward final ratification of the K’ómoks Treaty.

“Together with K’ómoks, this treaty will create opportunity, jobs, prosperity and certainty for our beautiful province,” said Premier David Eby.

“This is a historic day for the K’ómoks people, for those who have worked long and hard to reach this moment. People are experiencing real benefits from treaties, based in mutual trust and shared goals, like healthy communities, new investments and prosperity, services that make life easier, and sustainable land, water and resource stewardship.”

The moment follows more than 30 years of work by K’ómoks leadership, members and partners to reach a modern treaty aimed at recognizing the Nation’s inherent rights and supporting self-determination.

Chief Nicole Rempel says members have voiced strong support for both the treaty and the Nation’s constitution, adding the introduction of legislation moves K’ómoks closer to implementation and its long-term vision.

Eligible voters approved the treaty in March of last year, with 81-percent voting in favour. The K’ómoks Constitution also received 83 percent support, providing what the Nation describes as a clear mandate moving forward.

According to K’ómoks First Nation, the treaty will establish a framework for governance, land management and economic development.

The agreement is also intended to strengthen governance, encourage sustainable growth, and support long-term prosperity for K’ómoks members and the surrounding region.

The proposed legislation will now be debated in the B.C. Legislature.

If passed, it would represent a key step toward provincial ratification, followed by treaty signing and federal legislation before the agreement can officially come into effect.

To learn more, visit Government of British Columbia.