Four W̱SÁNEĆ First Nations have signed a friendship agreement with the Victoria Airport Authority (VAA) that will allow for a collaborative partnership for years to come.
The Nations that signed this agreement were the BOḰEĆEN (Pauquachin), W̱ JOȽEȽP (Tsartlip), SȾÁUTW̱ (Tsawout) and W̱SÍ,ḴEM (Tseycum).
According to both parties, this agreement reflects the long-standing relationship between the W̱SÁNEĆ people and the lands on which Victoria International Airport is situated.
In essence, it has laid the foundation for a shared commitment to reconciliation.
The agreement acknowledges the W̱SÁNEĆ Nations’ rights that are affirmed under Section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982, and emphasizes respectful relationships and ongoing dialogue between the two parties.
“On behalf of our four W̱SÁNEĆ Chiefs, we see this Friendship Agreement as an important step toward restoring our relationship to our territory,” said W̱SÁNEĆ leadership in a media release.
“The lands where the airport now stands have always been an important part of our homeland, and our responsibilities to this place continue. This Agreement creates space for our people to benefit from opportunities on our own lands and ensures that our voices are included in decisions that affect our territory and future generations.”
This friendship agreement was developed over the course of several years and will reportedly have a tangible impact on airport operations, future development and shared interests.
Furthermore, the agreement will see the VAA make annual economic contributions to the signatories based on airport revenues.
Contributed funds will go towards education training, scholarships and internships to increase employment for W̱SÁNEĆ members at the airport.
Funding will also go towards support for new business opportunities.
The friendship agreement was formally signed on February 4th, at the Mary Winspear Centre in Sidney.
