When the St’át’imc Hydro Agreement was signed and ratified in April 2011, a section in the Relations Agreement outlined that a Steering Committee would need to be established to aid in the implementations of the agreements.
This committee is responsible to review, evaluate, report, and provide recommendations on an annual basis or otherwise agreed on by the Committee.
On Wednesday, February 1, 2012, the Steering Committee, along with the ratification and implementation teams, met for the first time at LSTC in Lil’wat. Members of this Committee are Rod Louie, Lyle Leo, Bradley Jack, Mark Poweska, Edie Thome, and Stan Burkitt.
This was an orientation meeting held for members to familiarize themselves with all the St’át’imc Hydro work that’s been completed, and all the work that has yet to be done.
“There is still a lot of apprehension from the agreement, and we want to change that,” said Rod Louie. “All this upcoming work is a result from the ratification work. Our relationships are the most important part in finalizing this agreement.”
Everyone on the committee shares the same sentiment. They have a responsibility to uphold the promises made in the agreements, and they plan on addressing each issue. The Steering Committee is responsible for the implementation of all aspects in the agreement, and to address policy issues as they arise.
Part of the implementation strategy is to take some time to understand what this agreement entails as there have been majors impacts to the land, causing loss of life and resources.
“We are going to address these important issues and make sure they are looked after”, said Ernest Armann, Implementation Manager. “Sustainability is important. We need to build capacity, education and training, and improve our relationships. Our implementation plan needs to address all these issues to be successful. We have to look at where we came from and where we are today. It’s important for everyone to understand. There is a certain level of expectations and standards that have to be met.”
All committee members want to come together, collaborate and build strong relationships. This will help them do the best job for each community and ensure the implementation of the agreements is reaching its full potential.
“We are visionaries and opportunists. We want something that is going to be fair for everyone. We need to figure out our roles and responsibilities. Conflicts are good; they are an opportunity for resolution and deeper collaboration and consultation in the communities,” said Lyle Leo.
This initial meeting was a huge step toward better communication, stronger relationships, and efficient implementation of the agreements. The Steering Committee looks forward to fulfilling their duties and contributing positively to St’át’imc history.
The next Steering Committee meeting is scheduled for the end of April 2012.
