AFN National Chief Supports Tsilhqot'in Nation Position on Federal Review Panel Hearings on Proposed New Prosperity Mine Project

OTTAWA, June 28, 2013 /CNW/ - Assembly of First Nations National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo issued a statement today to support the Tsilhqot'in Nation regarding the upcoming Federal Review Panel hearings on the proposed New Prosperity Gold-Copper Mine project:

"The Assembly of First Nations fully supports the Tsilhqot'in Nation in asserting their inherent Indigenous rights to have a say over any activities that could impact their traditional territories. The Crown must act honourably in a manner consistent with the principles of free, prior and informed consent as articulated in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Ultimately, it is the Tsilhqot'in Nation - the people and the territory - that would be affected by any development and they must have the final say on any proposals. Myself and the AFN will fully support them in this matter."

The public hearings are scheduled to begin in on July 22, 2013 in Williams Lake, B.C. and are to be completed within approximately 30 days.

The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada.  Follow us on Twitter @AFN_Updates, @AFN_Comms

SOURCE: Assembly of First Nations

Alain Garon AFN Bilingual Communications Officer 613-241-6789, ext. 382; 613-292-0857 or [email protected]
Jenna Young AFN Communications Officer 613-241-6789, ext. 401; 613-314-8157 or [email protected]