Thursday saw three local Indian bands sit down in a Community to Community forum in Osoyoos with RDOS area directors, staff and municipal leaders. This was an historic meeting planned to allow some free discussion about many issues – respect and responsibility.

Chief and councillors for the Osoyoos Indian Band, Penticton Indian Band and the Lower Similkameen Indian Band attended along with council members from Princeton, Keremeos, Summerland, Penticton, Oliver and Osoyoos.

All of the scheduled speakers spoke with time created to hear Grand Chief Stewart Phillip and Dr. Gerry Karr on important health issues in the regional like diabetes, obesity and depression.

Much of the day looked at a protocol agreement between the RDOS and the three bands that was never signed in 2008.

“Some of the protocol discussion was about what happened in the past and how we got left at the altar,” said PIB Chief Jonathan Kruger. “Bands are still committed to it, and we are hoping the regional district will follow through and cross the line. I am looking for a signing ceremony.”

Kruger said it was a good meeting and he was happy that those in attendance got right to the heart of the matter.

RDOS chair Dan Ashton says 2008 was some time ago with different players. He promised action and a response from the Regional District within 60 days.

The rejected protocol spells out a relationship of dealing with various parties at the table. All leaders at the forum recognized that no one is going anywhere so respect is needed in dealing with many issues –  historical in nature.

With files from Castanet