A 2.67 hectare parcel of land has been returned to the Snuneymuxw First Nation by the BC government, as the site is of great significance to the Nation.
The site, which is known to the Nation as the sxwayxum village site, or Millstone River Village, was taken from the Snuneymuxw First Nation when it should have remained in their possession as per the Sarlequun Snuneymuxw Treaty of 1854.
The Province says this return of the land is a milestone for BC in upholding treaty promises.
To accomplish this milestone, BC provided the Nation with $26 million in funding to acquire the site located at 1 Terminal Avenue, as well as its adjoining properties and Snuneymuxw chipped in $2.5 million.
“Today marks a historic milestone for Snuneymuxw First Nation and the Province of British Columbia as we announce a joint acquisition that reflects the solemn promises embedded in our treaty relationship,” said Chief Mike Wyse of Snuneymuxw First Nation.
“This village is integral to our way of life and is fundamental to our traditional legal, economic and social systems,” Wyse added.
On the property, there was once an operational hotel, a parking lot as well as other businesses, but that all fell into a state of disarray.
The Nation says they now plan to redevelop the land which is situated right near Swy-A-Lana Lagoon and Maffeo Sutton Park
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“Snuneymuxw community members have waited a long time for the return of this land,” said Murray Rankin, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation.
“This initiative provides a unique opportunity to reunite Snuneymuxw with its historic village site, while also taking action to support the economic goals and aspirations of the Nation, which will also enhance the lives of all those in the area.”
Furthermore, the Province is contributing $1 million to help with redevelopment costs.
Currently, the Snuneymuxw Nation has more than 2,000 members yet holds the smallest land reserve per capita in BC.
