Home



Governance

Governance is key to the independence, self-determination and dignity of the Snuneymuxw.

For thousands of years, Snuneymuxw ancestors governed themselves and their Territory. The longhouse, land, language and laws were all vital parts of Snuneymuxw government. The Snuneymuxw principles for a return to self-government state that it will:

  • Be modern but based on traditional laws and values.
  • Have a written constitution created and voted upon by Snuneymuxw citizens.
  • Protect the interests of future generations.
  • Be fully accountable to Snuneymuxw citizens and, where appropriate, to third parties affected by Snuneymuxw government decisions.
  • Have jurisdiction over a wide range of matters like health, education, language, heritage and culture, justice, land-use planning, environmental protection and economic development.
  • Cooperate with local governments and harmonize laws and policies.
Purpose
  • to develop a process that is supportive of advancing pre-treaty discussions
  • to resolve issues identified in the Local Government Interjurisdicational Study
  • to develop a land use and servicing model for the RDN and SFN
  • to strengthen the general understanding of the Regional Growth Management process by having a SFN member work with the Senior Planner of the RDN on the Regional Grown Management Plan update

The federal and provincial governments have recognized the Snuneymuxw's inherent right of self-government but have different perspectives on the scope of the Snuneymuxw government powers. These issues will be negotiated.

Certainty of ownership over lands and resources will benefit everyone. First Nations have been clear they do not expect to achieve treaties at the expense of others. More important, First Nations are committed to building a new relationship with all people of B.C. and Canada, based on mutual respect and understanding.






Valid HTML! Valid CSS!