The Syilx Nation echo their support for the 5 Nicola Valley Chiefs saying NO to Bio-waste dumping in the Nicola Valley

Okanagan Nation Territory/Westbank BC – The Chiefs’ Executive Council of the Syilx (Okanagan) Nation have been notified and called to support the 5 Nicola Valley Chiefs in their efforts to draw attention to the Province’s actions regarding the importation of sewer sludge into the Nicola Valley.

“The Indigenous Title, Aboriginal and Treaty Rights of our Peoples cannot be ignored in the new era of the landmark Tsilhqot’in decision.  We stand with and beside our relations in their fight to protect their lands, resources and communities in the Nicola Valley, and really for all of us.”, stated Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, Chair of the Okanagan Nation Alliance.

Today, the 5 Nicola Valley Chiefs and community representatives: Chief Harvey McLeod of Upper Nicola, Chief Marcel Shackelly of Nooatich, Chief Aaron Sam of Lower Nicola, Chief Percy Joe of Shackan,

Chief Lee Spahan of Coldwater and supporters of Friends of the Nicola Valley have been faced with the inaction of the Government of BC and its Ministries, on the grave issue of importation of sewer sludge into the Nicola Valley, have collectively decided to occupy the offices of Premier Christy Clark in West Kelowna.

Grand Chief Stewart Phillip added further, “The message we share with the 5 Nicola Valley Chiefs, as we know, is commonly understood throughout our lands and that the Province of British Columbia is obligated to consult and accommodate the Aboriginal title, rights and collective interests of First Nations –  Premier Clark, act now!”