Lax Kw’alaams Band, along with representatives from the Allied Tsimshian Tribes, are taking their concerns to federal court, alleging a lack of meaningful consultation in the decision-making process.”
The court hearing, spanning five days, is underway in Vancouver, where the Lax Kw’alaams Band is contesting the implementation of fishing restrictions within the proposed MPA network. Covering an area of 102,000 square kilometers, the Northern Shelf Bioregion stretches from North Vancouver Island to the Alaskan Canadian border, encompassing vital fishing grounds for the Lax Kw’alaams commercial fleet.
Mayor Garry Reece of the Lax Kw’alaams Band expressed frustration, stating, ‘All we’re asking is that Canada seriously considers how this plan could impact our fisheries and way of life.’ He emphasized the need for meaningful consultation and collaboration with Indigenous communities.
Stan Dennis Jr, speaking on behalf of the Allied Tsimshian Tribes Association, echoed Mayor Reece’s sentiments, calling for a collaborative process with the federal government to minimize impacts and move forward positively.
Chief Robert Hughes of the Gispaxlo’ots Tribe criticized the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO), alleging mismanagement of fisheries and lack of collaboration with Indigenous stakeholders. He warned of dire consequences for the future of fisheries and livelihoods if the proposed MPA network is implemented without addressing Indigenous concerns.
The case of the Lax Kw’alaams Band highlights broader issues of Indigenous rights, consultation, and sustainable resource management in Canada.
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