Historic Agreement Between Tla'amin Nation and Domtar Marks Land Reacquisition
On March 17, 2025, a significant milestone was achieved when the Tla'amin Nation and Domtar, previously known as Paper Excellence, formalized a pivotal agreement regarding the lands associated with the tiskwat paper mill site in Powell River, British Columbia. This historic accord was celebrated at a ceremony held on Tla'amin Territory, resonating deeply within the community, as tiskwat is not just a location but a site of rich historical significance and cultural importance to the Tla'amin people.
The journey towards this agreement has been long and arduous, underscored by years of dedication from both parties. It began with the renaming of the mill site to tiskwat in 2021, reflecting a growing respect and acknowledgment for the land's history. Both entities, initially facing hesitations, worked diligently to build trust and establish a framework for cooperation.
One of the primary aims of this agreement was to return a substantial portion of land to the Tla'amin Nation. Significantly, the reacquired lands are predominantly situated along the river and oceanfront, representing some of the least industrialized segments of the tiskwat area. With this return, the Tla'amin Nation intends to oversee portions of the land, emphasizing cultural preservation and environmental responsibilities. The vision is to balance heritage with economic growth, utilizing the more industrialized parts of the land to stimulate regional development. This thoughtful approach signifies a dual commitment to cultural respect and community welfare.
Hegus John Hackett of the Tla'amin Nation expressed profound gratitude, acknowledging the resilience of their ancestors whose spirit guided them through the negotiation process. Hackett highlighted the emotional weight of reconnecting with lands that served as a historical commercial hub, crucial for trade and prosperity for centuries. This reconnection is not merely a return of land but a resurrection of cultural identity and responsibility.
Richard Tremblay, President of Pulp and Tissue at Domtar, echoed similar sentiments, noting that this agreement is a testament to the power of building trustworthy relationships. He emphasized that the collaborative journey between Domtar and Tla'amin Nation exemplifies how mutual respect can lead to extraordinary outcomes, marking a new chapter in their shared history.
The agreement furthers economic prospects not only for the Tla'amin Nation but for the entire regional community. While the Tla'amin Nation reacquires significant portions of the mill site, Domtar will retain some land to engage third parties in industrial redevelopment. This strategic decision ensures ongoing economic benefits for the wider community, illustrating a model of collaboration that extends beyond individual interests.
Support for the agreement was also voiced by provincial representatives, including Honourable Christine Boyle, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, who recognized the complexity and collaborative nature of the discussions that led to this momentous occasion. The overarching sentiment among leadership is that this agreement not only heralds a new era for the Tla'amin Nation but also sets a positive precedent for reconciliation efforts throughout British Columbia and beyond.
Turning now to the Tla'amin Nation, the community is poised to embrace this opportunity for future generations, nurturing their cultural legacy while engaging in economic development responsibly. The deal embodies a commitment to stewardship, aligning with Tla'amin laws and their enduring respect for the natural world.
In conclusion, this agreement stands as a powerful reminder of the importance of reconciliation, cooperation, and mutual respect. It not only empowers the Tla'amin Nation but also facilitates a collaborative future with Domtar, fostering a spirit of unity that nurtures both cultural heritage and economic viability. As both parties move forward, they share a vision that honors the past while building a hopeful future for the Tla'amin community and the broader region.
The journey towards this agreement has been long and arduous, underscored by years of dedication from both parties. It began with the renaming of the mill site to tiskwat in 2021, reflecting a growing respect and acknowledgment for the land's history. Both entities, initially facing hesitations, worked diligently to build trust and establish a framework for cooperation.
One of the primary aims of this agreement was to return a substantial portion of land to the Tla'amin Nation. Significantly, the reacquired lands are predominantly situated along the river and oceanfront, representing some of the least industrialized segments of the tiskwat area. With this return, the Tla'amin Nation intends to oversee portions of the land, emphasizing cultural preservation and environmental responsibilities. The vision is to balance heritage with economic growth, utilizing the more industrialized parts of the land to stimulate regional development. This thoughtful approach signifies a dual commitment to cultural respect and community welfare.
Hegus John Hackett of the Tla'amin Nation expressed profound gratitude, acknowledging the resilience of their ancestors whose spirit guided them through the negotiation process. Hackett highlighted the emotional weight of reconnecting with lands that served as a historical commercial hub, crucial for trade and prosperity for centuries. This reconnection is not merely a return of land but a resurrection of cultural identity and responsibility.
Richard Tremblay, President of Pulp and Tissue at Domtar, echoed similar sentiments, noting that this agreement is a testament to the power of building trustworthy relationships. He emphasized that the collaborative journey between Domtar and Tla'amin Nation exemplifies how mutual respect can lead to extraordinary outcomes, marking a new chapter in their shared history.
The agreement furthers economic prospects not only for the Tla'amin Nation but for the entire regional community. While the Tla'amin Nation reacquires significant portions of the mill site, Domtar will retain some land to engage third parties in industrial redevelopment. This strategic decision ensures ongoing economic benefits for the wider community, illustrating a model of collaboration that extends beyond individual interests.
Support for the agreement was also voiced by provincial representatives, including Honourable Christine Boyle, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, who recognized the complexity and collaborative nature of the discussions that led to this momentous occasion. The overarching sentiment among leadership is that this agreement not only heralds a new era for the Tla'amin Nation but also sets a positive precedent for reconciliation efforts throughout British Columbia and beyond.
Turning now to the Tla'amin Nation, the community is poised to embrace this opportunity for future generations, nurturing their cultural legacy while engaging in economic development responsibly. The deal embodies a commitment to stewardship, aligning with Tla'amin laws and their enduring respect for the natural world.
In conclusion, this agreement stands as a powerful reminder of the importance of reconciliation, cooperation, and mutual respect. It not only empowers the Tla'amin Nation but also facilitates a collaborative future with Domtar, fostering a spirit of unity that nurtures both cultural heritage and economic viability. As both parties move forward, they share a vision that honors the past while building a hopeful future for the Tla'amin community and the broader region.
Topics People & Culture）
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