CRD and SȾÁUTW̱ Sign Memorandum of Understanding
Media Release For Immediate Release May 15, 2025
Victoria, BC- The Capital Regional District (CRD) and SȾÁUTW̱ (Tsawout) First Nation have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
SȾÁUTW̱ First Nation has been a caretaker of the land on which the CRD is located since time immemorial. This MOU outlines a framework for ongoing dialogue and supports respectful, reciprocal government-to-government decision-making and service delivery that uplifts Indigenous self-determination. By implementing this MOU, the CRD will integrate SȾÁUTW̱’s perspectives and wisdom into CRD’s initiatives, which will enhance regional service delivery and create opportunities for collaborative economic growth and community well-being.
“It’s with great honour and excitement that we, as SȾÁUTW̱ First Nation, alongside the CRD, advance reconciliation in real time! I’d like to take this opportunity to say thank you to the CRD for working through and signing an MOU with SȾÁUTW̱ First Nation,” said SȾÁUTW̱ Chief Abraham Pelkey. “Although the Local Government Act states engaging or consulting with a First Nation government isn’t mandated, CRD does it anyway. We at SȾÁUTW̱ value this effort and our newfound relationship, now and into the future.”
“We are honoured to enter into this agreement with SȾÁUTW̱ First Nation to strengthen our government-to-government relationship,” said Cliff McNeil-Smith, Chair of the CRD Board. “This MOU reflects our commitment to working together in a spirit of partnership and respect, recognizing the importance of Indigenous knowledge and leadership in our shared efforts. I look forward to our ongoing collaboration.”
By outlining principles for working together, this MOU will directly support the creation of new processes for respectful and reciprocal government-to-government decision-making. CRD and SȾÁUTW̱ staff will collaboratively develop a workplan and hold ongoing meetings to review progress on the priority topics identified in the MOU. Additionally, annual government-to-government meetings will be held between leadership and elected representatives. These regular points of connection are important to foster continuous dialogue, build trust, and ensure that both parties remain aligned in their shared goals and commitments.
The MOU sets out priority topics for collaboration, including:
- fostering a respectful relationship;
- heritage conservation;
- reclaiming SENĆOŦEN placenames;
- parks, protected areas, and trails;
- consultation;
- docks and foreshore stewardship;
- storm water and source control water monitoring and management;
- land use strategies, management, and decision-making;
- environmental protection and restoration;
- land acquisition and disposition;
- equipment and resources;
- water supply and sewage treatment infrastructure;
- economic development and employment;
- contribution sharing; and
- any other topics identified and agreed to by the Parties.
The CRD delivers regional, sub-regional and local services to 13 municipalities and three electoral areas on southern Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. Governed by a 24-member Board of Directors, the CRD works collaboratively with First Nations and government partners to enable sustainable growth, foster community well-being, and develop cost-effective infrastructure while continuing to provide core services to residents throughout the region. Visit us online at www.crd.ca.
