Ep. 043: Developing A New Model for First Nations Engagement

Guest: Dallas Smith, Nanwakolas Council

The Tsilhqot’in decision “brings little justice."

That is according to Dallas Smith, the Board President of the Nanwakolas Council. "What it brings is the possibility of opportunity but it hasn’t done anything to really make communities a better place to live.”

The council consists of seven First Nations on northern Vancouver Island and the Central Coast. Formed in 2007, the council serves to speak as one voice in its relations with governments and business partners.

Mr. Smith goes on to say relationship building within First Nations and with all others is fundamentally important. The Nanwakolas Council is making it easier to do business with First Nations. Mr. Smith says, “We’ve created a land use vision that all of our nations in council agree upon.” He says this benefits First Nations, governments and industry because they speak as one voice and put certainty in land use decisions.