Lək̓ʷəŋən Territory (Victoria, BC) – Marking a significant milestone for regional reconciliation, the Songhees Nation and the Capital Regional District (CRD) have signed a Government-to-Government Protocol Agreement [PDF/423KB] that will guide the Parties in a renewed relationship, founded on mutual respect, collaboration, and shared prosperity.
Songhees has maintained their ancestral knowledge, ecological practices, and cultural heritage across generations. Songhees continues to hold Aboriginal rights and title and Douglas Treaty rights over their territory. The Nation is also actively negotiating a modern treaty through the BC Treaty Process.
The Protocol Agreement will create a space for CRD and Songhees to collaborate and discuss major decisions in a way that recognizes and respects the Nation’s critical role in the region. By creating a structure for their relationship, identifying clear topics for collaboration, and enhancing communication, it formalizes the government-to-government relationship between the Songhees Nation and the CRD.
“We are inviting the CRD to walk down a new path with us. Since the CRD operates within our territory, it is important that we work to understand each other,” said Songhees Chief Ron Sam. “After all,” he continued, “Our people were here long before the CRD or any of its municipalities. This Protocol Agreement reflects the strength of our Nation and our commitment to working collaboratively with our neighbours.”
“This Protocol Agreement represents a new chapter in our relationship with the Songhees Nation,” said CRD Board Chair Cliff McNeil-Smith. “It is a testament to our shared vision for a future where our communities thrive together. We look forward to building on this foundation and creating lasting benefits for all.”
Under the Protocol Agreement, the Parties will use specific processes for joint decision-making and improved communication. From protecting archaeological sites during development to planning water infrastructure and economic opportunities, both Songhees and the CRD will each have a voice in shaping the region’s future.
Key areas of collaboration include:
- government-to-government relationship;
- heritage conservation and archaeology;
- shared services and amenities, including water and wastewater servicing;
- parks and protected areas;
- land acquisition, land use, and natural resources;
- harvesting and gathering;
- environmental management and stewardship;
- Regional Growth Strategy;
- Island Corridor and the E&N Trail;
- economic development;
- employment and education; and
- other matters as the Parties may agree.
This Protocol Agreement moves beyond principles and into action, establishing new processes to ensure meaningful collaboration on regional priorities. This means projects affecting Songhees territory and interests will be shaped in collaboration with Songhees leadership from the outset.
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.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Andy Orr, Senior Manager
CRD Corporate Communications
Tel: 250.360.3229
Cell: 250.216.5492
Samantha Dean, Communications Manager
Songhees Nation
Tel: 250.386.1043 ext. 210
Cell: 250.218.1444
