The Act, in accordance with the Nisga’a Treaty provides opportunity for environment administration ex- perts to conduct thorough study and screening when in comes to environmental assessment and Nisga’a Lands. When the Act comes into full implementation, any project on Nisga’a Lands will be subject either one of the two requirements, simple review and comprehensive review based on the anticipated project effects.
With the establishment of a Nisga’a Environmental Assessment Office and Director of Environmental As- sessments, or the Nisga’a Lisims Government (NLG) Executive may issue certificate, impose conditions under Nisga’a Law. Prior to enactment, NLG will ensure that regulations, policies, and Nisga’a Law is co- hesive with environmental assessment. The Act is expected to come into force in 2025.
“This has been long negotiated with our technical team, BC, and Canada, our administration is proud to finally see this into fruition. There’s more work to be done at the decision table and I look forward to see- ing this though for the benefit of the economy, land assessments, and public engagement.” says Madam President Eva Clayton.
NLG Lands & Resource Director Griffin says: “This legislation will not only put Nisga’a Government at the helm of the Environmental Assessment process for large projects on Nisga’a Lands but just as importantly will bring to the forefront rigour, consistency, and transparency to the environmental assessment of smaller projects. Way Wo! Hlaa dim wilim’!”
Nisga’a Lisims Government looks forward to hosting public information sessions in our communities, in- cluding the three established urban locals. Be sure to Like and Follow www.nisgaanation.ca to keep up to date on current events.
