By Abigail Popple, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, RMG
Simpcw First Nation and the Thompson-Nicola Regional District (TNRD) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on July 17th, committing representatives from both communities to meet at least twice a year.
Simpcw First Nation drafted and signed a similar MOU with the Village of Valemount in March. In an interview with The Goat, Simpcw First Nation Councillor Tina Donald said these agreements are a valuable tool for strengthening relationships with other governments.
“Through MOUs, we commit to meeting on a regular basis. So if we have a project in the future, this is the time and place that we can sit down and talk,” Donald said. “It also gives an avenue to call up someone at TNRD if we have a question. It’s creating those relationships and creating a strong bond and partnerships within our territory.”
The MOU has been in the works for several months, according to Donald. She hopes the agreement will cement the collaborative relationship that Simpcw First Nation and the TNRD already have, she said.
“We’re working together for the benefit of our territory, and for the communities outside,” Donald said. “Wanting to work together, that’s what Simpcw is all about. It’s about creating partnerships.”
Lee Onslow – TNRD Director of Electoral Area B, which encompasses Blue River – echoed these sentiments.
Drafting the MOU with Simpcw First Nation was the first step in strengthening their relationship, she said.
“It was really nice to be at the table with Simpcw First Nation and elected officials from TNRD,” Onslow told The Goat. “I think as we get to know each other more closely and work closer on initiatives that will benefit all of the residents in the valley, the communication we have from signing this MOU will be a huge benefit to everybody. It opens the avenue of communication in a really thoughtful way.”
Onslow said under the MOU, Simpcw First Nation and TNRD can work as a united front when communicating with the Province – including on advocacy for Blue River residents.
“Some of the main things we’ve spoken about, and have already been working with Simpcw First Nation on, is advocating for Highway 5 safety and more police enforcement,” Onslow said. “That combined voice of elected officials will ultimately benefit everybody in the valley. And in Blue River itself, when we talk about healthcare and other initiatives, the voice of Simpcw First Nation will help us get better access to healthcare.”
“We are all part of this valley, we are all advocating together for healthcare access within the valley.”
