FUNDS SUPPORT EDUCATION ABOUT TREATIES

VANCOUVER - The Province has provided $250,000 to the BC Treaty Commission to educate and inform the public about the benefits of treaties announced Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation
Michael de Jong at a special screening of a new documentary film about the Nisga'a Nation last night.

"With six First Nations set to vote on Final Agreements and treaty negotiations being held across the province, there has never been a more important time to educate people about the benefits of treaties and what they will provide for all British Columbians," said de Jong.

The funding will be used to support public information sessions, advertising and web-based and video projects. One of the projects
included in the funding is a feature length documentary film. Nisga'a Dancing in Both Worlds examines how the Nisga'a Nation negotiated the first modern-day treaty in British Columbia. The filmmakers are currently negotiating to have the documentary broadcast on television and distributed to schools and libraries.

"The people of the Nisga'a are a real example of how a B.C. First Nation, with a modern day treaty, can establish a government and build a
stronger and more independent community," de Jong added. "British Columbians want to know more about how treaties help provide long term economic and social benefits and this is a concrete example."

"This generous grant will help the Treaty Commission expand its outreach through more public information initiatives that provide all British Columbians with a realistic view of the true potential of treaties, which the Nisga'a Nation is now realizing," said chief commissioner Steven Point of the BC Treaty Commission.

The Tsawwassen and the Huu-ay-aht First Nations (one of five Maa-nulth First Nations located on the west coast of Vancouver Island) will conduct treaty ratification votes this summer. The remaining four Maa-nulth First Nations will hold ratifying votes in the fall of 2007. Final agreement negotiations continue with the Yale, Yekooche, Sliammon and In-SHUCK-ch First Nations.

The Province is building a New Relationship with First Nations based on mutual respect, reconciliation and recognition of Aboriginal rights. This grant to the BC Treaty Commission supports the Province's Pacific
Leadership Agenda to conclude treaties and close gaps in health, housing, education, and economic opportunities.

For more information about the documentary, Nisga'a Dancing in Both Worlds, please visit the BC Treaty Commission's website at
www.bctreaty.net.