The newly declared tribal park region near Williams Lake has caused disputes between the First Nations government and the Taseko mine company on the upcoming plans for billion dollar mining project. It is present in my mind that the preservation of the richly inhabited land of the park should be of greater importance to the provincial and federal government. Although the mining project can bring in great economic prosperity for the region, it will also have its side effects on the environment and the ecosystem.
The cultural rituals for the preservation of their lands prevent Taseko, from successfully claiming rights to begin the project. These cultural trends have had an effect on the companies initial business plans. Without the Tsilhqot’in people standing up for the rights to the ownership of their lands, environmental damage at this tribal park will be used as a precedent in future cases. This would allow other industry giants to enact other claims for lands that could deteriorate the beautiful land, which we have come to cherish.
Work Cited:
PYNN, LARRY. “Tsilhqot’in Set to Declare Site of New Prosperity Mine a Tribal Park.” Www.vancouversun.com. Vancouver Sun, 11 Sept. 2014. Web. 05 Oct. 2014.