The Town of Smithers and the Office of the Wet’suwet’en re-signed a Protocol Agreement On Jan. 27, aimed at building stronger relations and improved communication practices.
“The signing of the second year Protocol Agreement with the Town of Smithers is a good start for the work to be undertaken in the upcoming year,” said Debbie Pierre, Executive Director for the Office of the Wet’suwet’en. “We emphasize the importance of communication between the Town of Smithers and the Wet’suwet’en on matters of mutual interest.”
The agreement focuses on bringing both parties to the table regularly to maintain direct communication on several matters including land development issues. A prime example of how tightly linked local governments and First Nations can partner together on a wide range of local subjects.
“The Wet’suwet’en Chiefs welcome the newly elected Mayor and Council and thank the previous council for their endeavors in working with the Wet’suwet’en Chiefs and the Office of the Wet’suwet’en,” Pierre said.
Last year the Office of the Wet’suwet’en and the Town of Smithers together made several presentations to the Provincial Union of B.C Municipalities Community, the Community Forum and the Laxalstsap Government on their achievements throughout the year. Former Mayor, Cress Farrow and the OW showed how the two parties collaborated on community forums, protocols and the Bulkley Valley Economic Development Association.
“Re-signing the protocol agreement provides an important opportunity for us to deepen our relationship with the Wet’suwet’en Hereditary Chiefs,” said Mayor Taylor Bachrach. “I believe we will achieve our greatest success when we work together from a place of trust and respect, and I’m happy that the protocol has set us on that course.”