We have recently learned that some Metchosin residents have received letters from the governments of BC and Canada about the Te’mexw Treaty Association negotiations. These letters have led to some questions about the 2017 Reconciliation Agreement between Sc’ianew Nation, the City of Langford, and the District of Metchosin, and we are happy to answer them.
We understand that these letters are part of general communications sent out to landowners of properties close to potential future treaty lands. Unfortunately, the letters sent out to Metchosin residents did not include the important context of the 2017 Land Swap and Reconciliation Agreement. We want to clarify and confirm that the Land Swap and Reconciliation Agreement remains in effect and all parties will uphold their commitments. In particular:
- Sections 25, 28 and 95 are being held for the benefit of the District and title to these 3 sections will be conveyed to the District upon the conclusion of the Te'mexw Treaty process, whether or not Sc’ianew concludes and ratifies its treaty.
- The agreement requires that these lands will be held for conservation in perpetuity
- Ongoing public use and enjoyment of Sections 25, 28 and 95 can and will continue
- Title to the "Buffer Land" (Metchosin Green Space) was conveyed to the District in 2017
- Sc'ianew Nation continues to hold its interest in lands transferred to Langford from the District of Metchosin as part of the Agreement
If you have any further questions about this, we welcome you to contact:
Councillor Steve Gray
sgray@metchosin.ca
250-478-5066