Province purchases ranch for Xatśūll First Nation as part of treaty negotiations

WILLIAMS LAKE–The Province has purchased ranch lands for the Xatśūll First Nation (Soda Creek Indian Band) as part of treaty negotiations with the Northern Secwepemc te Qelmucw (NStQ).

The Province purchased the ranch for a total of $8 million and are leasing it to the Xatśūll First Nation until a treaty is reached. Once a treaty is reached, ownership of the land will be transferred to the Nation.

“I believe this is a sign of the changes that are needed to make reconciliation something real for our members and First Nations communities around the province.”–Kukpi7 (Chief) Sheri Sellars, Xatśūll First Nation

“The opportunity this creates puts the tools for economic development into the hands of a community whose life has always been centred around the land. The community is celebrating this achievement – one that provides for a future of security and self-determination for our members,” adds Sellars.