Background

The B.C. First Nations Fisheries Council was first discussed during meetings that the Leadership Council facilitated among British Columbia First Nations in October and November 2006.  During these meetings First Nations discussed common fisheries issues, priorities, and concerns while establishing the framework for the First Nations Fisheries Action Plan.  The Fisheries Action Plan was formally published in May 2007 after being endorsed by the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs, the First Nations Summit, and the B.C. Assembly of First Nations.

One of the items identified as a priority in the Action Plan was the establishment of a First Nations Fisheries Council. A series of community meetings were held to discuss the composition and framework of the Council in May of 2007.

The Leadership Council solicited nominations for the Fisheries Council in the fall of 2007, and a slate of candidates was recommended to and endorsed by the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs, the First Nations Summit, and the B.C. Assembly of First Nations.  The Council was appointed in late 2007.

After being appointed, the First Nations Fisheries Council undertook a dialogue with First Nations fisheries organizations.  The Fisheries Council concentrated on three areas: developing a long term organizational development plan for the Council; establishment of a robust work plan; and responding to key issues of importance to B.C. First Nations.

Click here to download a Fisheries Council fact sheet in PDF format.