The Northern Secwepemc is hoping that the Government of BC will reconsider a decision that excludes First Nations from participating in surveys next year.
The province notified the Northern Secwepemc that they would not allow First Nations to participate in aerial wildlife surveys in the new year due to the pandemic.
The survey data helps inform the Limited-Entry Hunting (LEH) and Guide Outfitters (GO) licenses and certificates. The Northern Secwepemc relies on this data collected during aerial surveys to establish strategies and programs that will aid in conservation and stewardship measures.
The information can also be used to acquire more funding to pay for the long-term protection of the traditional territories’ resources.
A letter of concern was presented, supported by the Northern Secwepemc communities, outlining the province’s failure to adhere to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (UNDRIP) passed in 2019. The act states that the province acknowledges the specific right of Free, Prior and Informed Consent that dictates the duty to consult.
The surveys are set to start in January of next year.