30 Day Colliery Dam - SFN Talks Back On

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30 Day Colliery Dam discussion between Snuneymuxw First Nation and City resumes
(Nanaimo BC, July 22, 2013) – A Council to Council meeting held this morning between the Snuneymuxw First Nation and the City of Nanaimo has resulted in the continuation of discussions exploring means to reduce the identified risks associated with the Middle and Lower Colliery Dams. Talks between the Snuneymuxw First Nation and the City of Nanaimo were stopped last week due to concerns that the process being followed was unfavourable for maintaining an effective dialogue.

“I am pleased to report that the City of Nanaimo is once again engaged in conversation with the Snuneymuxw First Nation to explore risk mitigation options for the Lower and Middle Colliery Dams”, said Nanaimo City Mayor, John Ruttan. “I believe our time together this morning proved beneficial for everyone in attendance and I’m confident the challenges our two governments encountered with our dialogue last week have been addressed, and that we are moving forward with more talks.”

“I appreciate the open and constructive dialogue this morning between our Councils, and to carrying on with the 30 day process laid out in the City Council resolution of July 8,” said Chief Douglas White III of the Snuneymuxw First Nation. “This matter remains complicated and not easy for any of us. But I appreciated the leadership shown by everyone this morning, and look forward to next steps,” he added.

Snuneymuxw and the City expect to have further updates over the next few days about how the remaining time in the 30 day process will be focused, the role of the facilitator, and opportunities for public input.