Sliammon ( Tla'amin ) Treaty With Canada and BC

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Early transfer of treaty land . . .

Even before they have a treaty, or even have the vote on whether or not to accept the terms of the negotiated agreement, the Tla'amin nation is getting lands

Nation members who are eligible to vote will be going to the polls between June 8 and 16 to vote on the final agreement. If ratified, the next step would be for B.C. and Canada to introduce legislation, after which a date would be set for implementation of the treaty.

"The early transfer of these three parcels of land is a significant step on the road to treaty for the Tla'amin Nation. These are tangible benefits that voters can point to as concrete examples of progress. The lands were selected for their economic development potential and the early transfer will allow the people of Tla'amin Nation to benefit from the value of the lands much sooner," explained Clint Williams, Chief of Tla'amin Nation

April 27, 2012

SLIAMMON - The community of Tla'amin (Sliammon) Nation near Powell River celebrated a milestone in the treaty process today (Friday) at an event marking the transfer of three parcels of land to Tla'amin Nation in advance of their treaty being implemented.


(Photo of Clint Williams, Chief of the Tla'amin Nation receiving a certificate from Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Mary Polak, to commemorate the early land transfers.)

On Oct. 21, 2011, chief negotiators for Canada, British Columbia and the Tla'amin Nation initialled a final agreement that included a commitment to transfer ownership of four parcels of land before the effective date of the treaty.

Three of the parcels are being transferred at this time, with a fourth parcel to be transferred in the coming months. The three parcels are:

* Oyster Plant parcel - 0.16 hectares of filled foreshore adjacent to the Tla'amin-owned property at the end of Cannery Road on the Okeover Inlet.

* Westview parcel - Three district lots of approximately 48.3 hectares that are part of a much larger parcel of treaty land. The Westview early transfer parcel is within the municipal boundary of Powell River and is bordered in the north by Tanner Avenue and Covey Road.

* Wharf Street - 0.08 hectares located close to the ferry terminal in Powell River. It is the parking lot at the intersection of Wharf Street and Willingdon Avenue.

* The total area of the three early transfer parcels is approximately 48.5 hectares.
( To view maps of the three parcels of transferred land, go to:
http://www.gov.bc.ca/arr/firstnation/sl ... fault.html )

The Tla'amin Final Agreement contains provisions for self-government, financial and land transfers. The land component will consist of approximately 8,322 hectares of treaty lands that include surface and sub-surface resources, and are comprised of 1,917 hectares of former Indian Reserves and 6,405 hectares of former Provincial Crown lands.

The final agreement will provide certainty with respect to Tla'amin Nation's treaty rights and title throughout its traditional territory. It will also provide opportunities for the First Nation to increase its participation in regional government.

The Tla'amin Nation has approximately 990 members. Their traditional territory and reserve lands are located just north of Powell River.

Mary Polak, Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation - "The Tla'amin community has waited a long time for their treaty. The early transfer of land under this agreement provides some tangible benefits today as the work continues towards ratification and implementation. The land we are transferring supports opportunities for Tla'amin Nation to pursue community opportunities ahead of the treaty effective date."

Learn More:
For more information about Tla'amin Nation and treaties in B.C., go to:
http://www.gov.bc.ca/arr
http://www.sliammontreaty.com


Contact:

Maria Wilkie
Communications Director
Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation
250 953-3211
250 361-7720 (cell)

Grace Adams
Tla'amin Nation
Negotiations Manager
604 483-8146 (cell)

[admin]

Turtle Island Native Network
http://www.turtleisland.org

A group of protestors, called the "Concerned Members of the Sliammon First Nation",
have forced the cancellation of a ratification vote on their community's historic proposed modern-day treaty agreement. . .
http://www.prpeak.com/articles/2012/06/ ... 743918.txt

June 16th, 2012

We are here today to take a stand against the treaty process. This process has had a very
negative effect on the Sliammon people and more questions continue to arise.

We feel that there has not been full disclosure as to what the Sliammon people stand to
lose if the treaty is implemented. We stand for our future generations, we stand for our
ancestors and we stand for this land that is was never surrendered.

The enrolment process is flawed. From the very start the enrolment process violated our
constitutional rights as Canadian citizens. We were told that if we did not enrol, we could
not vote and therefore would have no say in the treaty process. Furthermore if the treaty
should pass, the many band buildings and services that were meant for our forefathers,
our children, grandchildren, the Sliammon people, would not serve us. Many of the
Sliammon people enrolled under DURESS. This is not constitutional and in effect makes
moot the very foundation of democracy.

On February 8/1999, Chief and Council of the Sliammon First Nation passed a motion
that should have effectively eliminated many people from transferring to Sliammon.
Transferring should only be done if the person requesting has blood ties to the Sliammon
band and can somehow prove it.

Chief Denise Smith in February 1999 advised that Sliammon had a few people that would
like to transfer to Sliammon Band. Chief and council decided to follow treaty policy and
accept only those who have blood ties to Sliammon.

To the contrary, recently there has been a large influx of people signing up to Sliammon
to vote on our treaty. A noticeable amount of these people have no actual blood ties to
Sliammon. This is a direct violation of the Band Council resolution passed in February
1999.

As it currently stands, there is NO MEMBERSHIP code at the Sliammon Treaty society.
Recently it has come to our attention that electoral procedures have not been followed in
Tacoma. Voters there were not asked to (but are required to) provide identification.

Electoral procedure is paramount, as the dignity and legitimacy of a nation’s governance
hangs in the balance. Following electoral procedure to the most minute of details ensures
that the decisions of the people are upheld. To stray, even from the most seemingly
miniscule detail jeopardizes and illegitimates the entire democratic process. Thus
democracy ceases to be democracy and becomes fixed. This effectively changes the
quantitative results, which in effect changes the outcome. Procedure is in place for a
reason.

We were also informed that people that may have switched or were born into other bands,
regardless of their ties to Sliammon were not eligible to vote in any elections in
Sliammon. Several children raised in Sliammon have become adults and have strong
familial ties to Sliammon but belong to another band.

When the question was posed as to whether or not these people with ancestry in
Sliammon can vote in our election, the response was swift “One cannot benefit from the
policies of two bands.”

It has come to our attention that people in Tacoma Washington have voted recently at a
pole held in Washington. A woman from Sliammon recognized several of her family
members there and they were voting under aliases. Many are enrolled in bands in United
States and have also managed to vote on our treaty under various other aliases.

The double standard is also being enacted now. Many people are appearing on the
Treaty’s voter list that have NO blood ties to Sliammon. Rather they are employees,
spouses and good friends of people in the Sliammon band membership. This again is in
violation of the February 9/1999 Band Council Resolution.

To further complicate things, NON band members, people that have no status and are not
registered by the Department of Indian Affairs or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
(INAC). The Sliammon Treaty Society has allowed NON band members to vote on such
an important election in the lives and history of the Sliammon people is inherently wrong.
Many have been estranged from Sliammon and have little concern or knowledge about
what is at stake for the Sliammon people other than the biased, vested opinions of the
Sliammon Treaty Society.

With the recent defeat of the Sliammon Treaty society’s Agreement in Principle which
was voted down by 2% in 2001, We believe the Sliammon Treaty Society have taken
steps to ensure the success of the Final Agreement, set to be voted on June 16/2012.

People can also enrol until 7:55pm on June 16th/2012. The official Sliammon Treaty
Voters list is supposed to be available to the public. We question how soon the Voters list
will be available to the public to view?

We also question how long a window we have to file appeals after the final vote. I also
assume that there would be a long window of opportunity to appeal voters as the
enrolment is allowed to continue so late.

Sliammon treaty society is supposed to be administered through Sliammon band (Chief
and Council). The treaty constitution by laws have not been made available to band
members at annual general meetings, on website or in hardcopy form when requested.

The Sliammon Treaty society is operating ILLEGALLY.

The failures and trials of the Sliammon band are no secret. Sliammon has dealt with
remedial management since 2011. This was implemented, as the Sliammon band was in
debt to the tune of nearly 4 million dollars. The passing of a treaty is not only illogical,
but dangerous to the Nation as Sliammon signs off sovereignty.

Our fishing rights, rights that we currently have, have not been settled. We currently have
no water rights, no fishing rights and this is permanent. If a right is not outlined in our
Treaty it is not right. This final document is unchanging, un-evolving. This means that as
legal precedent’s give further rights to other Canadians, the Sliammon people are bound
to a piece of unchanging government oppression. This is not only dangerous, it is
unacceptable.

Though letters of appeal have been sent out, we feel that we cannot wait for our fate to
be decided. We have decided to take a stand for our ancestors, ourselves and the future
generations of Sliammon.

We demand a FORENSIC AUDIT OF THE STATUS CARDS AND MEMBERSHIP CARDS

For the safety and dignity of the Sliammon nation and upholding of proper electoral
practice, the cornerstone of democracy. For the voiceless.

[admin]

Turtle Island Native Network
http://www.turtleisland.org

June 17th, 2012

A vote for the ratification of a Treaty for the Sliammon Nation came to a halt Saturday, when the voting poll was blockaded by a small group of Sliammon protestors.

"It's unfortunate that a small group prevented our Members from voting on whether or not we should proceed with the Treaty," said Sliammon Nation Chief, Clint Williams.

"Our challenge now is to give our Members their democratic right to vote on the Treaty."

The Sliammon Ratification Committee, comprising representatives from the Sliammon Nation, and the Federal and BC governments, are overseeing the voting process, in consultation with the Chief Electoral Officer. The Ratification Committee will be determining a new voting date shortly, and will be issuing a Notice of Vote. The Committee has said that the votes already cast are valid, and are in the custody and control of the Chief Electoral Officer.

"We've fought for decades for this right," said Vern Pielle, President of the Sliammon Treaty Society, speaking on behalf of their Board. The Society has been tasked with ensuring that all Sliammon Members were fully informed of all aspects of the Treaty and the Agreement-in-Principle and Constitution that preceded it.

"This is not a new process - we have been negotiating with the BC and Federal Governments for a long time. Some of us have been working on this process for close to two decades." "We need to finish our process," said Pielle. "All of our Members - not just a few - must have the right to make their views known. And we're now working on finishing that task."

[admin]

June 16, 2012

Statement by Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation regarding
Tla'amin treaty vote

VICTORIA - Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Minister Mary Polak
released the following statement today in response to the postponement of
the Tla'amin Nation treaty ratification vote:

"On Saturday, June 16, the democratic rights of several hundred First
Nations people were trampled upon. A small group of individuals, without
provocation, physically blocked a community polling station and prevented
Canadian citizens from exercising their right to vote.

"After more than a decade of intense negotiations, the Tla'amin people
were to vote on their treaty with Canada and British Columbia. But they
did not get that opportunity.

"Tla'amin Nation members must be able to exercise their right to make
their own choice on this important matter.

"This is not a First Nations issue. This is about democracy. Voting is a
fundamental right of every Canadian. As the Minister of Aboriginal
Relations and Reconciliation, I am extremely disappointed the community
was not allowed to express its wishes regarding this treaty. However, the
far greater issue is that the basic right to vote, that all Canadians
possess, was denied today.

"All Canadians should be concerned about this direct attack on one of our
most fundamental rights.

"The British Columbia government has been working with the Tla'amin Nation
since 1994 to negotiate this treaty. It is deeply regrettable that this
theft of democratic rights happened in plain view of authorities, who took
no conclusive actions.

"In Canada, self determination has and always will be obtained through the
ballot box - not through intimidation.

"We remain steadfastly supportive of the process we have initiated with
the Tla'amin Nation, Chief Clint Williams and his community. British
Columbia will work with the Tla'amin Nation and Canada to reschedule the
vote that was postponed today, and will work with the parties and the RCMP
to prevent a repeat of today's affront to Canadians' democratic rights."

For more information on treaties in B.C., visit:
http://www.treaties.gov.bc.ca/

[admin]

Tla'amin People Denied Treaty Vote

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA

June 17, 2012

Tla'amin members prevented from casting a treaty vote Saturday should be able to exercise their democratic right to vote according to the Treaty Commission.

"The small number of Tla'amin members who blocked the doors to the polling station in Sliammon village near Powell River have trampled on the rights of the Tla'amin people," said Chief Commissioner Sophie Pierre.

The Treaty Commission will continue to support Chief Clint Williams and the Tla'amin community to ensure there is a vote and that everyone can participate, and the parties and the police must work together to ensure Tla'amin First Nation can safely conduct a treaty vote by its members, she said.

"These Tla'amin members who blocked the doors to the polling stations claim to speak for the many," said Pierre. "They are saying they know what is best for Tla'amin. But the decision to accept or reject the treaty is a decision that each Tla'amin member has the right to make on their own."

Tla'amin members' right to vote on the treaty is fundamental to the BC treaty process. As the keeper of the process, it is the Treaty Commission's responsibility to oversee the negotiations and ensure the process is followed.

"We understand there are people who are opposed to the treaty but there has been a long period of negotiations and consultations," said Commissioner Jerry Lampert, who represents the Treaty Commission on Tla'amin negotiations. "Our role is to ensure a vote will be held."

The vote was suspended Saturday, by the ratification committee representing the three parties, when it became clear the entrance to the polling station would remain blocked.

About the BC Treaty Commission

The Treaty Commission is the independent body responsible for overseeing treaty negotiations among the governments of Canada, BC and First Nations in BC. It has three roles: facilitation, funding, and public information and education. Visit www.bctreaty.ca to learn more about the Treaty Commission.

[admin]

Turtle Island Native Network
http://www.turtleisland.org

June 17th, 2012

Federal Aboriginal Affairs Minister John Duncan expressed disappointment in the wake of a protest that forced postponement of the Sliammon First Nation treaty agreement ratification vote.

The Minister issued the following statement:
"We understand that due to protests at the polling stations, the Sliammon First Nation has postponed the June 16th vote on the ratification of the treaty.
It is disappointing that the vote was disrupted due to these actions.
Our government believes that a person's right to vote should not be denied and we hope that community members use the democratic process to express their agreement or disagreement with the proposed treaty.
The Sliammon Ratification Committee is responsible for setting out the voting procedures and dates and they will decide on next steps.
We are confident that the people of Sliammon will be able to cast their vote on this important matter in the near future.
Canada remains committed to achieving results through the BC treaty process.
We believe that the modern treaty that has been negotiated with the Sliammon First Nation reconciles Aboriginal and Crown interests and balances the rights and interests of the community and all Canadians."

[admin]

Turtle Island Native Network
http://www.turtleisland.org

June 19th, 2012

Sliammon First Nation is located in an area of British Columbia, referred to as the Sunshine Coast. However, dark clouds of dissent descended upon the area this past weekend.

Protestors prevented their fellow citizens from "exercising their legal rights" to vote, on a final agreement toward a treaty.

Chief and Council of Sliammon First Nation (near Powell River, BC) seek a court injunction to halt a blockade, that saw the scheduled ratification vote on the treaty agreement halted. The elected chief and council vow to press on, get the courts to back them, and reschedule a vote, so the community can get on with reaping the benefits of this modern-day treaty.

However, in the community (as in many First Nations) the treaty process has been divisive, even if the dissenters appear to be in the minority and far outnumbered by treaty supporters.

Signs in the community have mirrored the divide - some saying, "Yes" and others, "No To Treaty".

Here is some background from Sliammon (Tla'amin ), courtesy of Powell River Community Radio. . . http://cjmp.ca/podcast/index.php?cat=Sliammon%20Speaks

The Tla'amin Final Agreement contains provisions for self-government, financial and land transfers. The land component will consist of approximately 8,322 hectares of treaty lands that include surface and sub-surface resources, and are comprised of 1,917 hectares of former Indian Reserves and 6,405 hectares of former Provincial Crown lands.

The final agreement will provide certainty with respect to Tla'amin Nation's treaty rights and title throughout its traditional territory. It will also provide opportunities for the First Nation to increase its participation in regional government.

The Tla'amin Nation has approximately 990 members. Their traditional territory and reserve lands are located just north of Powell River.
- - -

Dissent is not new to the BC Treaty Process.

Remember the effort by a few to scuttle the Tsawwassen First Nation treaty agreement and vote?

A few dissenters there on the BC Mainland, did not stop the Treaty,
and as we read the words of Chief Kim Baird it was well worth the struggle . . .to succeed.

"It is an extraordinary time for the people of the Tsawwassen First Nation as we continue moving forward in the second year of our treaty. We are a proud SELF GOVERNING Coast Salish nation, the first of its kind for urban British Columbia.

We are working hard to build a vibrant community at Tsawwassen that is at the forefront of economic, environmental, social and cultural sustainability. Progress is visible on our Lands and in our neighbouring communities - the Industrial Lands infrastructure work is in progress and TFN has a seat on the Metro Vancouver Board of Directors. As we move forward, we are challenged to build on this momentum while making more strides to incorporate our culture and language into our laws, practices and institutions.

Our successful existence as a tribe is partly due to our culture and language, at the same time it is also due to our ability to adapt to our constantly changing surroundings. We must also strive to maximize every opportunity the treaty provides for, while ensuring we have a livable community.

It is important to stress that not only is our government working hard to succeed – but our individual members as well. This year we have a record breaking amount of post secondary applicants. This bodes well for the future viability of our community. "

Source: Tsawwassen First Nation web site http://www.tsawwassenfirstnation.com/

[admin]

Tsawwassen First Nation supports Tla'amin First Nation's right to vote on their future

TSAWWASSEN, BC, June 22, 2012

Tsawwassen First Nation today expressed its support for the Tla'amin people's right to vote on their Treaty. The Tla'amin vote, scheduled for June 16th, was interfered with by a small group of protesters who blocked the entrance to the voting centre and forced a re-scheduling of the vote. "This is a time of great pressure for the Tla'amin people", said Chief Kim Baird, "and no-one knows what's best for their future except the Tla'amin people themselves. Every member of Tla'amin First Nation has the right to express their choice through a voting process. It is disappointing that a small group have interfered with that right. We wish the Tla'amin leadership and negotiators all the best as they seek to ensure Tla'amin members can exercise their right to vote."

The Tsawwassen First Nation Final Agreement (the Treaty) has been effective since 2009, following a successful ratification vote by the Tsawwassen people in 2007. Tsawwassen First Nation was the first to ratify a Treaty under the BC Treaty Process. Of the 218 eligible voters, 187 (86%) enrolled to vote. Of those, 180 (96% of those enrolled) cast a ballot. 130 voters voted in favour of ratifying the Final Agreement, a margin of 72%. "At Tsawwassen, we worked extremely hard to reach out to all eligible voters, and to ensure that every voter was informed about the choices that lay ahead. Every party to the vote went to great lengths to protect the integrity of the decision-making process."

Chief Baird also addressed criticisms of the Tla'amin process that are being made by external organizations, and a 2009 UN report criticizing the Tsawwassen process. "It is easier to make allegations against process and throw stones than it is to mount real arguments about substantive elements of the agreement", Chief Baird stated, "The UN report was completely uninformed; those who wrote that report did not visit TFN, gathered no objective data, and did not consult with TFN or give us any ability to respond. We invite anyone who questions our engagement and consultation processes to pay us a visit and learn about the work we do."

Yesterday, TFN celebrated its third National Aboriginal Day under its Treaty. The second election of its self-governing institutions takes place this fall, followed by the 6th session of the Tsawwassen Legislature.

For further information:
Tanya Corbet, Tsawwassen First Nation
Tel: (604) 948-5205
Mobile: (604) 928-0879
Email: tcorbet@tsawwassenfirstnation.com

[admin]

VANCOUVER, June 26, 2012

In the wake of recent media reports about the blockade of polling stations to prevent Sliammon First Nation citizens from exercising their right to cast ballots on the proposed Sliammon treaty, the leadership and citizens of the Maa-Nulth First Nations want to take this opportunity to express our support for the electors, elected leaders and treaty negotiators of the Sliammon First Nation. As leaders of the five First Nations that entered into the Maa-nulth Treaty in 2011, we are distressed at this subversion of the democratic process in another First Nation.

All First Nations, First Nation governments and First Nation negotiators that participate in the treaty process in British Columbia do so with the full expectation of participating in good faith negotiations, concluding an agreement-in-principle and, subsequently, a treaty and presenting that agreement to its citizens for ratification in a referendum. These First Nations go to extensive lengths to ensure that their citizens are fully informed about the treaty and that each individual is allowed to cast their ballot in a safe environment, privately and in accordance with their personal beliefs.

It is extremely distressing for those of us who aspire to construct healthier and more productive communities to watch as a small group of people, through intimidation, subvert the democratic process and deny Sliammon citizens their civil and political right to express their preference on this important issue. It is equally distressing to see people from outside the Sliammon community intervening in the communities affairs.

The forceful interference with or prevention of a citizen's right to vote is an offence under Canadian law. One can easily imagine how such conduct would have been dealt with if this were a federal or provincial election.

Throughout the world, ordinary people are fighting and dying to secure democratic regimes and to guarantee the right of expression through the ballot box.

Right thinking Canadians, aboriginal or otherwise, should not stand silently by while these fundamental rights are under assault. Let the Sliammon people decide whether this treaty is right for them.

"Signed" "Signed"
Jeff Cook, Chief Councillor Therese Smith, Legislative Chief
Huu-ay-aht First Nations Ka:'yu:k't'h'/Che:k'tles7et'h' First Nations

"Signed" "Signed"
Anne Mack, Tyee Ha'wilth Charlie Cootes, Chief Councillor
Toquaht Nation Uchucklesaht Tribe

"Signed"
Chuck McCarthy, President
Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ First Nation


For further information:

Charlie Cootes, Chief Councillor
Uchucklesaht Tribe
(250) 724-1832

Therese Smith, Legislative Chief
Ka:'yu:k't'h'/Che:k'tles7et'h' First Nations
(250) 332-5259

Charles McCarthy, President
Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ First Nation
(250) 726-7342

Anne Mack, Tyee Ha'wilth
Toquaht Nation
(250) 726-4230

Jeff Cook, Chief Councillor
Huu-ay-aht First Nations
(250) 723-0100

Chuck Poschenrieder / Martha Johnson
The First Nations of the Maa-nulth Treaty Society
(250) 724-1802

[admin]

Statement from Minister Polak on Tla'amin (Sliammon) Nation vote

VICTORIA - Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Minister Mary
Polak released the following statement today regarding the
rescheduled Tla'amin Nation treaty ratification vote:

"I look forward to the Tla'amin Nation treaty ratification vote
proceeding unimpeded on July 10, 2012.

"The Tla'amin Nation and Sliammon Treaty Society have worked for many
years to negotiate a treaty with British Columbia and Canada. There
has been an extensive process to communicate with the community about
all elements of a treaty, including what it would mean to move out
from under the Indian Act.

"On my own visits to the community, I have met many community members
who are engaged and informed and eager to have their say in the vote.
It is especially heartening to see so many young people in the
community engaged in the process, because they will be the true
beneficiaries of a treaty if the community votes in favour of one.

"I am optimistic that all Tla'amin members who have not already cast
ballots will have the chance to proudly vote as they see fit on July
10 and that later that night, all Sliammon people will know the
results of the vote."

[admin]

Turtle Island Native Network
http://www.turtleisland.org

For the second time, members of the Sliammon First Nation in British Columbia are going to vote on their treaty agreement with Canada and British Columbia.

The last time there was a vote - June 16th, protestors who are opposed to the agreement, blocked their fellow citizens from voting (although some people did vote by mail)

Now there will be a vote July 10th, 2012

Ratification Q&A’s
I voted by mail, does my ballot count?
Yes, all ballots that have been cast are valid.

I voted by mail in ballot, but I have changed my mind and would like to vote in person. Can I?
Yes, you can. If you have voted by mail in ballot but wish to vote in per-son on the final vote day of July 10, 2012 the Chief Electoral Officer will mark on the Official Voters List that you have voted in person. When the ID envelopes of the mail in ballots are being processed the mail in ballot will be rejected.

I voted in person already, does my ballot count?
Yes, all ballots that have been cast are valid.

Where is my ballot right now?
All ballots are in the custody and control of the Chief Electoral Officer.

I still want to vote, how can I?
You can vote in person on July 10, 2012 at the Sliammon Salish Centre (4885 Salish Drive, Powell River), by mail, or by mobile poll.
You can vote by mail. If you need a new mail in ballot package, please contact the Chief Electoral Officer at 604-786-2512 or by email at fschiff-ner@dccnet.com
If you can vote by mobile poll. If you want to cast your ballot by mobile poll please phone 250-886-3170 or by email at Sliam-monRC@gmail.com.

I don’t want to vote in person, do I have other options?
Yes, a voter who does not wish to vote in person may either vote by
mail or may request a mobile poll.

How do I request a mobile poll?
If you would like to request a mobile poll, please call 250-886-3170 or
by email at SliammonRC@gmail.com

What happened with all of the ballots already cast at polling stations
and received by mail?
All ballots cast at previous polling stations or by mail are in the custody
and control of the Chief Electoral Officer.

Can I still bring my mail-in ballot package to the polling station?
Do I have to bring it in myself?
Yes, you may bring your mail-in ballot package to the polling station.

Can I still mail in my mail-in ballot package?
Yes, voters may still put their mail-in ballot packages in the mail. In order
to be counted, the ballot must be received by the Chief Electoral
Officer by 8:00pm on Tuesday July 10, 2012.

I've lost my mail-in ballot package, can I get another one?
Yes, a voter may request a new mail-in ballot package by contacting
the Chief Electoral Officer at 604-786-2512.

Are there other ways I can cast my ballot besides going to the poll?
Yes, voters may choose to cast a ballot by mail or by mobile poll.
If a voter wishes to vote by mail, the voter must complete and return their mail-in ballot package to the Chief Electoral Officer. If a voter has lost their mail-in ballot package, they may request a new mail-in ballot package by contacting the Chief Electoral Officer at 604-786-2512 or by email at fschiffner@dccnet.com

If a voter wishes to vote by mobile poll, the Ratification Committee and a voting officer will endeavour to deliver, under reasonable circum-stances, a mail-in ballot package to the voter for a select period of time leading up to the vote. If you would like to request a mobile poll, please contact Amy at 250-886-3170 or by email at Sliam-monRC@gmail.com

Has the Sliammon Ratification Committee responded to ques-tions and concerns voiced by the blockaders regarding the ratification process?

The Sliammon Ratification Committee (SRC) is responsible for over-seeing the ratification vote. During the blockade of the polling station on June 16, the protesters requested to meet at a later date with the SRC to discuss concerns or questions they had. The SRC met with two spokespersons for the protesters on June 19. Following a produc-tive meeting, the spokespersons confirmed that they no longer had any concerns with the ratification process
http://sliammontreaty.com

[admin]

Turtle Island Native Network
http://www.turtleisland.org

"We are at a cross-road in our history." Sliammon Chief Clint Williams

July 2012

The Chief of Sliammon First Nation is urging his community members to vote July 10th and ratify the treaty agreement that has been negotiated with British Columbia and Canada.

( Chief Clint Williams: http://www.scribd.com/doc/99215463/Slia ... reaty-Vote )

(Frequently Asked Questions: viewtopic.php?p=15293#p15293 )

"On July 10 we are being asked to consider whether we think that the new tools of governance,jurisdictions, financial and natural resources set out in the treaty will enable us to change our way of lifeand make our Sliammon world richer: socially, economically and culturally. Through this democratic process, Sliammon people are empowered to express our choice in a fair and safe way.

We as the Sliammon Nation have negotiated this treaty close to 20 years under the direction of our members, ancestors, elders, and many Chiefs and Councils and treaty boards as a way of releasing us from the Indian Act system we’ve been under for far too many years. That system created division and
disharmony in our community. Now we are all seeking a way where we can once again become unified and prosper as a Nation, as individuals and as families.

We are at a cross-road in our history. Our choice is whether we will continue to struggle for our rights and survival under the colonial system of the Indian Act that has suppressed and oppressed us for more than 150 years -- or if we take advantage of the immediate opportunities available to us under treaty.

The treaty will allow us to once again access and have a say throughout our territories and to have full and direct control over our treaty lands and resources. It would provide us with significant additional financial and natural resources with which to dismantle that colonial system and allow us to rebuild our Nation based on our vision of being healthy, self-governing stewards of our lands and resources. It will enable us to work towards continuing to improve the quality of our lives for present and future generations."

LETTER FROM THE CHIEF TO SLIAMMON
http://sliammontreaty.com/wp-content/up ... embers.pdf

[admin]

Turtle Island Native Network
http://www.turtleisland.org

Sliammon Peoples Opposed to Modern Treaty Seek Injunction Against Treaty Vote

July 5, 2012

The Sliammon Peoples opposed to the "Tla'amin Final Agreement" have filed an
injunction to stop the proposed vote on July 10, 2012 against the Sliammon
Treaty Society and the Sliammon Chief and Council. They will appear before the
BC Supreme Court at 800 Smithe Street today, July 5, 2012 at 10 am in Vancouver, B.C., Canada.

The Sliammon Treaty Society and Sliammon Chief and Council had got an injunction on June 22, 2012 to prohibit the Sliammon people who blocked the treaty vote on June 16, 2012 from blocking the next treaty vote scheduled for July 10, 2012.

The reason the Sliammon people who oppose the modern treaty is that the proposed treaty will extinguish their Aboriginal Title and Rights under the modification provisions. Furthermore, there is a total lack of legitimate membership and voting rules regarding the proposed vote scheduled for July 10, 2012.

They cite that the United Nations under the Committee for the Elimination of
Racial Discrimination did make observations to Canada regarding the Tsawwassen Final Agreement that methods of voting and monitoring must be transparent and money should not be used as an inducement to produce a result.

The Sliammon treaty opposition state there are no transparent rules regarding
membership and voting and that massive amounts of money have been given by the government to get a yes vote.

Contact:
Brandon Peters from Sliammon: (604) 483-4475
Jackie Timothy from Sliammon: (604) 298-3907

[admin]

Sliammon,
on BC's "sunshine coast" now on the verge of approving a modern-day treaty. . .

July 10th, 2012 - The weather forecast is for sunshine and temperatures in the mid-twenties.

The political forecast indicates a few dark clouds of division and tension, offset by a whole lot of hope and optimism, as a second Sliammon treaty ratification vote is scheduled to be held today.

Yesterday, a court rejected efforts by some community members - the "Protectors of Sliammon Sovereignty" to halt the vote, because of alleged voting irregularties. They produced no proof.

Previously, Sliammon First Nation Chief and Council succeeded in getting an injunction forbidding a repeat of last month's protest that prevented voters from casting ballots.

The Mounties promise to enforce the injunction today - if there is a repeat.

In an effort to allay citizen concerns, Chief Clint Williams earlier this month reminded his community of the importance of them voting for the treaty agreement with BC and Canada: "We as the Sliammon Nation have negotiated this treaty close to 20 years under the direction of our members, ancestors, elders, and many Chiefs and Councils and treaty boards as a way of releasing us from the Indian Act system we’ve been under for far too many years. That system created division and disharmony in our community. Now we are all seeking a way where we can once again become unified and prosper as a Nation, as individuals and as families. We are at a cross-road in our history. Our choice is whether we will continue to struggle for our rights and survival under the colonial system of the Indian Act that has suppressed and oppressed us for more than 150 years -- or if we take advantage of the immediate opportunities available to us under treaty."

[admin]

Turtle Island Native Network
http://www.turtleisland.org

Treaty will permanently remove the Sliammon from the shackles of the arcane Indian Act. . .

July 11th, 2012 -

318-235. That was the vote in favour of a Sliammon (Tla'amin) First Nation treaty with Canada and British Columbia.

Of 615 community members registered on the Official Voters List, 318 voted in favour of ratification; 235 voted against; 61 eligible voters did not cast a ballot; and there was one spoiled ballot. A successful vote required 50 per cent plus one of eligible voters on the Official Voters List to vote in favour of ratification.

The Tla’amin Final Agreement will now go to the provincial legislature for ratification and then to the Parliament of Canada to be ratified.

The main goal of the treaty is to allow for self-government.
There is of course a financial component: The Tla'amin Nation will receive a capital transfer of approximately $29.7 million (all figures in 2010 $) over 10 years, less outstanding negotiations loans. In addition, Tla'amin will receive economic development funding of approximately $6.9 million, and a Fishing Vessel Fund of $250,000. B.C. and Canada will each provide $331,292 annually in resource revenue sharing for 50 years. All resource sharing payments will be indexed to inflation.
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Counting ballots on Tuesday evening July 10th at Sliammon(Tla'amin) First Nation where a second ratification vote was held. . .

(Photo by: Laura Walz, the Powell River Peak. Laura was there as the votes were counted and provided us with a play by play commentary on Twitter "Sliammon community members and provincial and federal negotiators sing a song of appreciation. Everyone is in a circle." "Sliammon treaty passes, tears of joy, drumming, singing, as community members take it all in, hugs and laughter.")

"It is a historic moment for the people of Tla’amin and for all British Columbians," said Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Minister Mary Polak today (July 11th, 2012) in response to the ‘yes’ vote by Tla’amin Nation members regarding the ratification of their treaty: “I would like to congratulate Tla’amin Nation members and their leadership on achieving a ‘yes’ vote in favour of the Tla’amin Final Agreement. This is a clear sign that the treaty process is alive and well, and a ‘yes’ outcome to the vote helps build momentum in negotiations across B.C.

“Community support is important as we move toward treaty. This vote is a milestone in the journey to a treaty that will bring many benefits to the community and see Tla’amin become a full, self-governing treaty nation.

“Even though there were forces trying to determine the future of the Tla’amin people, the Tla’amin triumphed. "
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Tla'amin People Vote in Favour of Treaty

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA

July 11, 2012

The Tla'amin people have voted to accept a treaty agreement that provides self government, 70 kilometers of ocean front land near Powell River, resource revenue sharing and cash.

"This is truly a great day for the Tla'amin people who have voted to step out from underneath the Indian Act to chart their own future," said Sophie Pierre, chief commissioner of the BC Treaty Commission. "The democratic right to vote has prevailed and the Tla'amin people have expressed their confidence in a new future in which they will be self governing, with sufficient land, resources and capital to create a better future for their people."

The Tla'amin Final Agreement includes provisions for governance, land, capital, natural resource, fish and wildlife management, and cultural and heritage stewardship. The total value of the treaty is estimated to be over $100 million.

The treaty provides $8.5 million in annual funding for governance, programs and services; $6.9 million fo reconomic development; and $662,000 in annual resource revenue sharing.

"I applaud the Tla'amin people for enduring long and often difficult negotiations to arrive at a treaty, which has the potential to significantly change their lives for the better," said Commissioner Jerry Lampert, who represents the Treaty Commission at the Tla'amin negotiations. "The challenge now is for the governments of British Columbia and Canada to ratify the treaty in a timely fashion so the Tla'amin people can get on with their lives."

There is $1.74 million in funding for a new administration and cultural building and approximately $834,000 for culture and language programs.

Tla'amin becomes the eighth First Nation to ratify a treaty in the BC treaty process after Tsawwassen, the five Maa-nulth First Nations on the west coast of Vancouver Island and Yale First Nation.

K'omoks First Nation has ratified an agreement in principle and several more First Nations including Tla-o-qui-aht, Kitselas and Kitsumkalum are expected to complete agreements in principle this year and move into negotiations on a final agreement.

About the BC Treaty Commission

The Treaty Commission is the independent body responsible for overseeing treaty negotiations among the governments of Canada, BC and First Nations in BC. It has three roles: facilitation, funding, and public information and education. Visit www.bctreaty.ca to learn more about the Treaty Commission.
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TLA'AMIN FINAL AGREEMENT

The Tla'amin Nation (Sliammon First Nation) is one of the tribes of the northern Coast Salish. Their traditional territory covers approximately 317,000 hectares in the Sunshine Coast region and a marine area of approximately 292,000 hectares. Tla'amin's main reserve north of Powell River is home to nearly 70 per cent of Tla'amin band members. Tla'amin has very close relationships with the Klahoose and Homalco First Nations. In fact, historically, the three First Nations were one entity and share a common ancestry.

The Tla'amin Nation has already taken steps toward treaty by adopting a constitution that will form the basis for a democratically accountable Tla'amin Nation Government and includes a process for enacting laws, a system of financial administration and conflict of interest rules – all components of the Final Agreement.

Once the Final Agreement is ratified by all three parties and after the Final Agreement comes into effect, the Sliammon First Nation will be known as Tla'amin (pronounced Tla ah men) Nation.

Financial components

The Tla'amin Nation will receive a capital transfer of approximately $29.7 million (all figures in 2010 $) over 10 years, less outstanding negotiations loans. In addition, Tla'amin will receive economic development funding of approximately $6.9 million, and a Fishing Vessel Fund of $250,000. B.C. and Canada will each provide $331,292 annually in resource revenue sharing for 50 years. All resource sharing payments will be indexed to inflation.

The Tla'amin Nation government will deliver agreed upon programs and services under the terms of a Fiscal Financing Agreement. The Fiscal Financing Agreement provides annual transfers from Canada and British Columbia to support the delivery of agreed upon programs and services by Tla'amin to its members and residents, as well as funding to support activities to implement the treaty. Tla'amin will also receive $550,000 from Canada prior to the date the Final Agreement comes into effect to establish its government.

The Fiscal Financing Agreement provides for one-time and ongoing funding, including: one-time federal funding of $4.6 million; on-going federal funding of approximately $8.0 million per year for the first five years; and on-going provincial funding of approximately $446,000 per year for the first five years.

Taxation

Taxation is an important element of the Tla'amin Final Agreement as it contributes to the foundation of future revenue capacity for the Tla'amin Nation Government. The Indian Act tax exemption for Tla'amin members will be phased out after eight years for transaction (i.e., sales) taxes and 12 years for other taxes, including income tax. The Tla'amin government will have the ability to levy direct taxes on its members within Tla'amin Lands.

Lands

Tla'amin Lands do not form part of any municipality or electoral area, nor do they form part of any regional district. Tla'amin is responsible for managing its intergovernmental relations and may enter into agreements with local governments for the provision and delivery of services. Tla'amin will have land management and self-government authorities on Tla'amin Lands as defined by the Final Agreement.

Tla'amin Lands will consist of approximately 8,322 hectares, composed of 1,917 hectares of former Indian Reserves and 6,405 hectares of former Provincial Crown lands. Tla'amin will own surface and sub-surface resources on Tla'amin Lands. Tla'amin will also own 0.3 hectares of land on Savary Island and a 0.08 hectare parcel on Wharf Street near the Powell River ferry dock; however, Tla'amin will not have law-making authority over this land. Approximately 1,200 hectares may become Tla'amin Lands if acquired by Tla'amin on a willing seller, willing buyer basis and in accordance with of the Final Agreement.

Self-government

Tla'amin will have law-making powers for matters related to lands, resources and delivery of programs and services, including health, education and public works, on Tla'amin Lands.

Wildlife and plant harvesting

Tla'amin members will have the right to harvest wildlife and migratory birds for food, social and ceremonial purposes within the Wildlife and Migratory Birds Harvest Area. This right is limited by measures necessary for conservation, public health or public safety.

Forestry

Tla'amin will own, and have authority to manage, all timber and forest resources on Tla'amin Lands. Tla'amin is responsible for the control of insects, diseases, invasive plants and animals on Tla'amin Lands which may affect the health of forest resources on those lands. Provincial law with respect to the protection of resources from wildfire and for wildfire prevention and control applies to Tla'amin Lands.

Tla'amin will receive a total of 78,000 cubic metres of annual allowable cut, which includes 28,000 cubic metres per year under B.C. timber sales. In addition, Tla'amin will receive $350,000 to acquire additional annual cut on a willing seller – willing buyer basis from private tenure holders

Fisheries

Tla'amin will have a treaty right to harvest fish and aquatic plants for domestic purposes within the Tla'amin Fishing Areas. Fishing will be in accordance with a harvest document issued by the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans. Tla'amin members' fishing rights will be limited by measures necessary for conservation, public health or public safety.

Tla'amin commercial fishing will be fully integrated with the general commercial fishery and licences issued to, or acquired by, Tla'amin will be fished according to comparable terms and conditions applicable to other licences in the commercial fishery. Tla'amin commercial fisheries will not be conducted under a harvest agreement. Access to the commercial fishery will be obtained from existing capacity within the commercial fishery.

Access to Tla'amin Lands

Highways will remain provincial Crown land and are specifically excluded from Tla'amin Lands. Tla'amin will allow reasonable public access for temporary recreational purposes to those portions of the Sunshine Coast Trail that are on Tla'amin Lands.

Tla'amin will allow reasonable access to non-members to hunt on Tla'amin Lands in accordance with federal and provincial laws and with Tla'amin laws respecting access to these lands.