By Ashley Burr

Lheidli T’enneh Treaty Vote Begins In PG

Jun 17, 2018 | 2:02 PM

PRINCE GEORGE –  Sunday marks the beginning of advance voting stations being open to members of the Lheidli T’enneh First Nation in Prince George. Last month, the updated treaty between Lheidli T’enneh and the provincial and federal government was signed. 

As members of Lheidli T’enneh head into the Prince George Native Friendship Centre, they have two decisions to make: Whether they accept the Final Agreement and whether they accept the Constitution.

Lheidli T’enneh Council Member Vanessa West says she is excited to see the Lheidli T’enneh community engaging in the vote and getting educated on the treaty.

“Our band members and our community members have the chance to really learn what was in the treaty, make that informed decision, and regardless of whether it’s a yes or a no, it’s really just ensuring that they have enough information to make an informed decision and whatever the outcome is, you know, our community has been here for a very very long time, and we are going to continue to be here,” says West.

The last time a vote was held was in 2007, at that time the Constitution was accepted, but not the Final Agreement.

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Lheidli T’enneh community member Ralph Gouchie cast his vote Sunday. He’s in favour of the Treaty and hopes people will vote with the next generation at the forefront of their minds. 

“It’s all about the grandchildren, they would have a better life, a better education,” says Gouchie. 

For the treaty to pass it will need 50% plus one approval of Lheidli T’enneh voters. If the Lheidli T’enneh Treaty is not voted through, Lheidli T’enneh would remain under the Indian Act. 

Voting ends June 23rd and results are expected to be released by the following day.