The In-SHUCK-ch/N’Quatqua, Canada and British Columbia have signed a framework agreement that outlines the main topics for negotiation and procedures for the agreement-in-principle stage of the B.C. Treaty Commission process. The agreement identifies nine major areas of discussion, including lands and resources, financial settlement, governance and third-party and public interests. It specifically recognizes the importance of an open negotiation process. The three parties have agreed to try and conclude agreement-in-principle negotiations by the end of September. "This agreement signals the continued commitment of the government of British Columbia to the B.C. Treaty Commission process," Aboriginal Affairs Minister John Cashore said in a release. "We are also encouraged to see the commitment shown by both aboriginal and non-aboriginal communities in the Pemberton area to building a new relationship, and we look forward to achieving a treaty with the In-SHUCK-ch/N’Quatqua that will be fair and equitable to all." In-SHUCK-ch/N’Quatqua spokesperson Eppa (Gerrard Peters) said: "We look forward to completing this (next) stage in a timely manner while taking into consideration all of the factors which will be necessary to accomplish a treaty that will be a worthy document for all involved parties." The In-SHUCK-ch/N’Quatqua represents four bands, the Douglas, Skookumchuk, Samahquam and Anderson Lake. The bands are located between Harrison and Anderson Lakes, near Pemberton.
