Two Sunshine Coast First Nations have sent a letter to organizations opposed to independent power projects demanding consultation and chastising the groups for "profound ignorance, paternalistic behaviour and outright dismissal or our rights and title."
The Klahoose and Sechelt First Nations sent the letter to Watershed Watch Salmon Society, Save Our Rivers, Sunshine Coast Conservation Association, Western Canada Wilder-ness Committee, BC Citizens for Public Power and Canadian Office and Professional Employees Union (COPE) 378. The letter is signed by Klahoose Chief Ken Brown, Sechelt Chief Garry Feschuk and Sechelt councillors Tom Paul, Robert Joe, Jordan Louie and Wesley Jeffries.
"We find your complete and total failure to consult with First Nations on these matters to be offensive and contrary to the Supreme Court of Canada's clearly articulated decisions," the March 20 letter stated in part. "From our perspective and as historical stewards of these lands, your unwillingness to consult with us and predetermined opposition to these projects amounts to a modern form of eco-colonialism."
The letter also demands that the groups "immediately recognize our rights and title and not enter our territories without due notice and consideration," withdraw their "uninformed opposition" and abide by the "ultimate decision of the First Nations with respect to such projects."
Tla'Amin (Sliammon) First Nation did not sign the letter, said Chief Clint Williams, because it is in negotiations with Plutonic Power Corporation for a new impact benefits agreement. "We didn't want to say anything one way or the other that would affect our negotiations, either good or bad," Williams said.
