In a ceremony held June 25 in Vancouver, the Gitxaala Nation, alongside federal and provincial leaders including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, celebrated the signing of the “Great Bear Sea Project Finance for Permanence” agreement. This landmark agreement underscores the Gitxaala Nation’s commitment to conservation and sustainable development in the Great Bear Sea Marine Protected Area Network.
Chief Councilor Linda Innes and Deputy Chief Bruce Innes represented the Gitxaala Nation at the signing, highlighting the significance of the agreement for their community. The agreement secures long-term funding aimed at supporting community development, marine planning, conservation efforts, and comprehensive research and monitoring initiatives.
A key aspect of the agreement is its collaborative governance framework involving the Gitxaala adaawx, ayaawx, gugwilx’ya’ansk (traditional decision-making bodies), the Province of BC, and the Federal Government. Together, they will work towards defining and achieving conservation targets crucial for the sustainable management of Laxyuubm Gitxaała’s lands and waters.
For the Gitxaala Nation, this agreement represents a pivotal step forward in their ongoing efforts to protect and manage their ancestral territories. It sets a precedent for collaborative conservation efforts and underscores their commitment to environmental stewardship in the region.
The signing ceremony was marked by optimism and a shared commitment to preserving the natural heritage of the Great Bear Sea for future generations. This agreement not only strengthens partnerships but also paves the way for sustainable development practices that respect both cultural traditions and ecological integrity.
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