VICTORIA - Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Minister Mary Polak released the following statement today regarding the rescheduled Tla'amin Nation treaty ratification vote:
"I look forward to the Tla'amin Nation treaty ratification vote proceeding unimpeded on July 10, 2012.
"The Tla'amin Nation and Sliammon Treaty Society have worked for many years to negotiate a treaty with British Columbia and Canada. There has been an extensive process to communicate with the community about all elements of a treaty, including what it would mean to move out from under the Indian Act.
"On my own visits to the community, I have met many community members who are engaged and informed and eager to have their say in the vote. It is especially heartening to see so many young people in the community engaged in the process, because they will be the true beneficiaries of a treaty if the community votes in favour of one.
"I am optimistic that all Tla'amin members who have not already cast ballots will have the chance to proudly vote as they see fit on July 10 and that later that night, all Sliammon people will know the results of the vote."
Contact:
Robin Platts
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation
250 387-1204
250 213-6451 (cell)
