Image: Supplied by Pexels /A Chilliwack First Nations entity has reached an agreement with the B.C. government to pursue cannabis economic development.

By Mike Vanden Bosch

Cannabis deal

Chilliwack First Nations band inks deal with province to pursue cannabis economic development

Jul 20, 2022 | 9:14 AM

CHILLIWACK — The provincial government and Shxwhá:y Village, a First Nations entity located north of Highway 1 in Chilliwack, have inked a deal that allows the band to pursue economic development of cannabis.

The agreement marks the sixth of its kind and a significant milestone as the government of B.C. supports First Nations towards development of a robust cannabis industry.

Section 119 of the Cannabis Control and Licensing Act authorizes the B.C. government to enter into agreements with indigenous communities. The provision affords flexibility that enables both governments to achieve objectives for regulated cannabis, the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General said in a statement. At the same time, the agreement maintains general alignment with provincial and federal cannabis laws.

“Shxwhá:y Village and B.C. have diligently worked in partnership to reach an agreement that supports both governments in meeting our cannabis objectives,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General. “Together, we’re implementing a path forward that supports a safe and strong cannabis sector.”

Today’s announcement codifies Shxwhá:y’s interests in operating cannabis production and retail ventures, and it affirms each government’s shared policy objectives relating to public health and safety, social responsibility, protecting young people, deterring illicit activity, and supporting socio-economic development.

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“”We set out to harmonize our interests and approach with those of the provincial government,” said Chief Robert Gladstone of Shxwhá:y Village. “We had some tough discussions and finalizing this agreement took the better part of three years, but I am proud we signed an agreement that sets a strong foundation for ongoing government-to-government collaboration. This is reconciliation in action. However, reconciliation has no end. The work continues through the implementation of this agreement. This would not have been possible without the support of my community, colleagues at the B.C. Cannabis Secretariat and my negotiating team at All Nations.”

In January 2022, the province introduced a B.C. Indigenous Cannabis Product program that expands delivery options for all retailers and will launch new programs for direct delivery this summer and farm-gate sales this year.