Background
BC Hydro created the Aboriginal Relations Department in August 1992 "to establish mutually beneficial relationships with Aboriginal people that will be recognized as models for others to follow."
BC Hydro has many power generation facilities located in First Nations traditional territories. We also have more than 2,000 kilometers of transmission and distribution lines located on about 500 reserves belonging to 169 of the 197 First Nations in the province.
As legal, business, political and social realities continue to evolve, the department's goal remains to preserve a foundation of mutual understanding, respect, open and honest communication and trust with First Nations.
Establishing and maintaining mutually beneficial relationships with First Nations provides a significant opportunity to Hydro. We will be able to access our facilities and secure project licenses in the future and provide a reliable supply of electricity to all our customers.
BC Hydro's Aboriginal Relations' objectives are to:
- Build better relationships with First Nations;
- Lead others in developing Aboriginal relations strategies; and
- Promote business and workforce development for Aboriginal people.
The Aboriginal Relations Department works to accomplish these objectives by focussing on five strategic areas:
Last Modified: May 9, 2009
