Huu-ay-aht First Nations citizens made history on Saturday when they became the first British Columbia Nation to approve the co-management development of a liquefied natural gas facility.
With 70 per cent support in a referendum on Saturday, March 25, citizens show resounding faith in Huu-ay-aht Ḥaw̓iiḥ (Hereditary Chiefs) and elected Executive Council’s vision, and the Sarita LNG facility became real. The positive vote means that the Nation will move forward in a co-management relationship with Vancouver-based Steelhead LNG proposed for their traditional territory in Sarita Bay, on the west coast of Vancouver Island.
“This is an exciting day for Huu-ay-aht,” explains Chief Councillor Robert J. Dennis Sr. “This vote shows that our community is united and ready to sit at the table with Steelhead LNG as partners as this project moves forward.”
Executive Council would like to offer its appreciation to citizens for their support in this project. By voting in favour of this project, citizens have opened the doors to a future full of opportunity. The project will make possible many of the projects and programs Executive Council has proposed. Executive Council will move forward guided by ʔuuʔałuk, ʔiisaak and Hišuk ma c̓awak, and fostering growth and capacity building in citizens, ensuring the success of the people, families, and Nation for generations to come.