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Wei Wai Kum First Nation

Starting in February 2020, the Wei Wai Kum (Campbell River Indian Band) implemented a Monitoring and Information Sharing (Guardian) Program Agreement (MISA) with Cermaq Canada for operations in the Discovery Islands.

The Wei Wai Kum First Nation gave serious consideration to the outcome of the Discovery Islands Decision in December of 2020 and took the step to negotiate directly with the salmon farming industry operating in their territory. Chief Roberts stated in a letter to the Minister that “Title belongs to Wei Wai Kum and we do take seriously our responsibility to govern our fisheries and be stewards of our lands.”

As a result of this discussion Cermaq Canada transferred the Licenses of Occupation to two facilities in the Discovery Islands to Wei Wai Kum and will be compensating Wei Wai Kum for fish harvested from the facilities.

Wei Wai Kum leadership wishes to embrace a process that advances reconciliation in respect of fisheries resources. We view this proposal, jointly submitted by Wei Wai Kum and Cermaq, as reconciliation in action as it builds on DFO’s recognition of our Indigenous Rights in our territory. The goal is to expand our Nation’s access to the commercial industry, including aquaculture, develop community fisheries, and create a mechanism for collaborative governance of fisheries resources.

Chief Roberts