Province of British Columbia commits 9 million towards Tsimshian Roundtable initiative

While some clouds maybe gathering over the province's LNG plans, Premier Christy Clark is holding to the course of development, with the Premier announcing today that the province of British Columbia is committing to 9 million dollars of funding over three years towards The Tsimshian Roundtable, a partnership of the six Tsimshian First Nations and proponents of LNG development in the Northwest.

The focus of the funding is to provide for a new framework that will address skills training approaches and the socio-economic well being of Tsimshian members. Chief Clifford White made note of the the building of partnerships that the round table offers the region.

“We are taking an unprecedented, holistic approach that aligns industry objectives with the vision of First Nations in a unified plan ... First Nations across Canada, and beyond, have often seen large developments occur in their territories but have not historically experienced the substantive or long-term benefits. This is not just about getting a job. It is a partnership that supports our people’s long-term career aspirations and considers the socio-economic health of our communities.”

For her part, Premier Clark hailed the future of shared prosperity that the initiative offers all of the stakeholders in LNG development in the region.

“We are pleased to support the work of the Tsimshian Roundtable as a key partnership with First Nations related to LNG development and shared prosperity .. Through the co-ordinated efforts of the First Nations and industry members of the roundtable, they are shaping a better future for the Tsimshian people and all British Columbians.”

LNG Minister Rich Coleman made note of the how the collective approach can provide for prosperity for area communities.

“This partnership with the Tsimshian Nations, proponents and government recognizes that LNG can help to create opportunities that can lead to economic prosperity and social well-being in all our communities,” 

The Tsimshian Roundtable will build on the success of the Pathways to Success program which has been put in place in Prince Rupert and Terrace and so far has helped 180 Tsimshian women and men find jobs in the construction, customer service and environmental monitoring sectors.

The make up of the Tsimshian Roundtable includes: Representatives of the Tsimshian Alliance and six LNG project proponents Aurora LNG, BG Canada, LNG Canada, Pacific Northwest LNG, WCC LNG and Woodside LNG.

It was not stated in the information statement whether the funding for the next three years is dependent on forward momentum for any of the proposed LNG projects on the North Coast.

You can review the full commentary from today's announcement here.

More items related to LNG development in the Northwest can be found on our archive page here.

Cross posted from the North Coast Review