PRINCE GEORGE, B.C. — A group of B.C. First Nations has joined forces in hopes of taking the reins on natural gas and mining projects in the province's resource-rich north.
Dozens of elected and hereditary chiefs have signed an agreement to work together on pursuing part ownership of natural resource development in their traditional territories.
Nadleh Whut'en (NADLAY'-wah-ten) Chief Martin Louie says 36 chiefs met to sign the deal, with at least six more expected to come on board in the coming days.
He says the meeting was triggered by concerns about lack of consultation and environmental regulation around liquefied natural gas, mining and forestry.
The group includes the Wet'suwet'en (wet-SOOH'-eh-ten) and Gitxsan (GIT'-san) First Nations near Prince Rupert, both of which have spoken out about the potential negative impact of resource development.
The chiefs say they will consider asking Canada for a loan guarantee and will begin meetings with industry provincial and federal governments in the new year.
