B.C. takes new approach to First Nations

The Campbell government is beginning its second term with a new focus on First Nations, as the premier has revived the ministry of aboriginal relations.

Premier Campbell had dropped the ministry after coming to power in 2001. And then the government's treaty referendum a year later created a split with First Nations.

• FROM APRIL 8, 2002: Opposition grows to treaty referendum

• FROM JULY 3, 2002: 'Yes' by a big margin in referendum

But since then the government has quietly moved away from some of the hard-line positions it took on land claims.

It's signed agreements-in-principle that offer First Nations self government and a share of resources. And now the premier has created a new ministry and named it aboriginal relations and reconciliation.

"It's really saying we should recognize the world that we live in. There has been some very strong leadership from First nations Communities saying they are ready to move forward," says the premier,

"We will forge new relations with First Nations founded on reconciliation, recognition and respect of aboriginal rights and title."

• LINK: Government announcement

It's the sort of language aboriginal leaders have been seeking from the government.

The First Nations Summit is applauding the move. And Stewart Phillip, who leads the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs, also welcomes Campbell's new approach.

"We believe that it represents a huge step in the right direction," he says.

Phillip says the government seems to have learned a lot in the past four years.

NDP leader Carole James won't go that far. But she says the premier is taking a more conciliatory tone. Now she wants to see it backed up with actions.

• LINK: NDP reaction to new cabinet

• INTERVIEW: The Early Edition's Rick Cluff speaks with Victoria Times-Colonist political columnist Les Leyne.

• INTERVIEW: B.C. Almanac's Belle Puri speaks with Ed John, who leads the First Nations Summit.