We started with a 2 hour open house for community members to have time to review information packages, and to voice any question or concerns with the Hydro team on a personal level.
Chief Garry John then opened the meeting with the welcome song that lifted all our spirits. We sat down for dinner at 7, a big thanks to Ida Peter and helpers for the fabulous dinner prepared.
Raymond Phillips (St'at'imc Legal Council) then discussed the summary of the St'at'imc Hydro Agreement. The community members stated their questions and concerns regarding the Hydro Agreement. A few of the Questions and Statements from the Tsal'alh Community:
"Why haven't we signed the agreement as 1 nation rather then 10?"
"Administrative trustees, what are their qualifications?"
"How will the communities pick a trustee?"
"Are we going to develop a constitution that will govern the nation?"
"Were continuing on what our ancestors started, they must be really smiling. They wanted the best for us."
"If we don't agree to this, are we willing to wait another 20 years?" These questions and statements were answered by the St'at'imc Legal Council to the best of their knowledge.
All in all the Tsal'alh Community Members left, informed and better educated about the St'ati'mc Hydro Agreement. All My Relations,
Jenilee McDonald