First Nations Forestry Council Conference Report

The province’s intentions paper on modernizing the forest industry is a good first step but falls well short of satisfying the needs of First Nations, experts told the B.C. First Nations Forestry Conference. A panel presentation suggested the paper does not go far enough to address the concerns of First Nations. The policy paper promised the future of the province’s forest industry would include improved access to fibre for a broader group of companies, communities and First Nations… Charlene Higgins, chief executive of the B.C. First Nations Forestry Council, said the province has not lived up to its commitment to First Nations. …Minister of Forests Katrine Conroy told the conference aligning with the UN declaration is one reason why they are modernizing forest policy. …But Higgins said First Nations must be full partners in forestry. …Sandra Atkinson, director of operations for B.C. First Nations Forest Council, said the conference is all about change and establishing First Nations as full partners in the industry.