The Canadian Government has signed an amended Fisheries Resources Reconciliation Agreement (FRRA) committing to a respectful and cooperative partnership with Indigenous Peoples.
The Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, the Honourable Bernadette Jordan and Coastal First Nations (CFN) President Chief Marilyn Slett, signed the historic agreement which provides funding for access to commercial fishing opportunities for the eight CFN member First Nations on the British Columbia (BC) North and Central Coast, and Haida Gwaii.
“Through this agreement, our people will have a significant say in the management of the oceans while at the same time have the ability to once again participate in the maritime economy,” commented Chief Marilyn Slett, President, Coastal First Nations.
The FRRA is the first of its kind in the BC North and Central Coast and Haida Gwaii, and will provide jobs in the home communities of the participating Haida, Heiltsuk, Kitasoo/Xai’xais, Metlakatla, Nuxalk, Wuikinuxv, Gitga’at and Gitxaala Nations.
This amended agreement sets out the next steps for commercial fisheries to encourage a greater flexibility in community participation and greater access to fishing licences and quota. It also includes support for the CFN member Nations to make investments in gear, vessels, licences, operations and infrastructure.
