Treaties accomplish many goals that benefit First Nations, government and all citizens of British Columbia.
Treaties reconcile the interests of First Nations, Canada and British Columbia in a formal way.
Treaties provide certainty over rights to land and resources.
Treaties reduce conflicts over land and resources between First Nations and others. When disputes do arise in the future, treaties provide a process for timely and practical resolution.
By establishing certainty over land ownership and resource management, treaties encourage investment and create new opportunities.
Communities can expect economic benefits as First Nations establish new businesses, create jobs and participate more fully in the provincial economy.
Total benefits from treaties, including cash settlements and increased investment, could reach $50 billion — $1 billion to $2 billion each year for the next 20 to 25 years.
Economic stability enables Aboriginal people to better protect and develop many aspects of their unique cultures — their languages, songs, stories, ceremonies, values, beliefs, and way of life.
Treaties lead to greater self-reliance for First Nations communities and help to close the social and economic gaps that exist between Aboriginal people and other British Columbians.
