Referrals

Upholding Our Rights Through Meaningful Consultation

The Leq’á:mel First Nation Referrals Office ensures that all land and resource activities within our traditional territory respect the Nation’s title, laws, and values. By reviewing and responding to development proposals, the office safeguards Leq’á:mel’s environmental, cultural, and spiritual interests—ensuring that engagement with governments and industry is conducted with transparency, accountability, and free, prior, and informed consent.

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The Leq’á:mel First Nation Referrals Office is responsible for reviewing, assessing, and responding to all proposed land and resource activities within Leq’á:mel traditional territory.

The LFN Referrals office ensures that all decisions affecting Leq’á:mel lands, waters, and resources respect the Nation’s inherent rights, values, and traditional laws. The program plays a critical role in protecting the Nation’s interests, advancing self-determination, and maintaining accountability in all external projects that occur within the territory.

The Referrals Office serves as the formal point of contact for governments, industry, and developers seeking to engage with Leq’á:mel on matters requiring consultation or accommodation.

All engagement within the territory must recognize:

  • The Nation’s inherent title and rights;
  • The right to free, prior, and informed consent (FPIC);
  • The importance of protecting cultural, environmental, and spiritual values; and
  • The need for meaningful dialogue that results in shared understanding and equitable outcomes.

SEA Explanation

Leq’á:mel First Nation participates in the Strategic Engagement Agreement (SEA) with the Province of British Columbia, a framework that defines how consultation is conducted between the Nation and other organizations.

The SEA establishes consistent communication protocols, consultation timelines, and assessment procedures for provincial decisions affecting Leq’á:mel territory. It allows the Nation to review, comment on, and make recommendations regarding applications for developments.

Contact Form for Proponents

Proponents seeking to conduct work or submit applications within Leq’á:mel territory are expected to:

  • Contact the Referrals Office early in the project planning stage;
  • Provide comprehensive project information, maps, and anticipated timelines;
  • Respect Leq’á:mel’s review and decision-making timelines;
  • Acknowledge the Nation’s rights and the requirement for meaningful consultation; and
  • Obtain written confirmation or formal consent prior to project commencement.

Failure to engage appropriately may result in the Nation exercising its rights to halt or challenge activities that infringe upon Leq’á:mel’s jurisdiction or environmental stewardship responsibilities.

If you are a proponent or agency wishing to submit a project referral or consultation request, please email the Referrals Office at: referrals@leqamel.ca