Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs
Chiefs Council
Vancouver, B.C.

Resolution no. 2006-42

RE: Fish Farm Moratorium

WHEREAS the UBCIC Chiefs Council has in the past supported the objectives and mandate of the Musgamagw Tsawataineuk Tribal Council (MTTC) members within their Traditional territories with respect to fish farm activities within our collective territories, and most recently supported the creation of the First Nations Strategic Alliance on Aquaculture (FNSAA) through UBCIC Resolution 2006-12;

WHEREAS there are ongoing provincial public initiatives to address public concerns about the environmental impacts of open net cage fin fish farming in British Columbia, such as the Pacific Salmon Forum (PSF) and the Special Committee on Sustainable Aquaculture (SCSA);

WHEREAS there are impacts and studies that have been peer reviewed and published which demonstrate impacts to the marine food resources and the Title and Rights of Coastal First Nations;

WHEREAS there have been several resolutions, recommendations and requests for a moratorium on the development of new open net cage fin fish farm sites, from both aboriginal and non-aboriginal organizations, including but not limited to the Special Committee on Sustainable Aquaculture, the Union of BC Municipalities, the Wilderness Tourism Association and the Musgamagw Tsawataineuk Tribal Council;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the UBCIC Chiefs Council fully support a moratorium on new open net cage fin fish farm sites, and on the expansion of existing sites, until an adequate framework for consultation and accommodation are agreed to by the Province and the MTTC/FNSAA, including agreements to implement joint decision making institutions to ensure sustainable management of marine resources in British Columbia;

THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the UBCIC Chiefs Council request an immediate response from the Provincial Cabinet to the call for a moratorium on new open net cage fin fish farm sites, and on the expansion of existing sites.

Moved: Chief Sidney Douglas, Cheam Indian Band
Seconded: Chief Perry Redan, Cayoose Creek Band
Disposition: Carried
Date: November 24, 2006