When Major Projects like mines, pipelines, hydro projects, and transmission lines are proposed within the Gitxsan Laxyip the immediate question is “Do the economic benefits outweigh the environmental impacts?”

Under the Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous People’s Act (DRIPA) the Gitxsan require free, prior and informed consent in order to the project to move forward or not. “Free” means that the proponent has to pay for the information. It does not signal approval or support for a project; this step only provides correct unbiased information to each Simoogit and Wilp only. This is very important. Without this step, projects can happen without Gitxsan consent, and that cannot happen.

Major projects can impact waterways, watersheds, fish, habitat, climate change, and so on. The Simgigyat with their Wilp members have to decide to support or oppose any major project. This office will provide the traditional ecological knowledge from elders and knowledge keepers as well as scientific data from professional staff and subject matter experts. It is up to each Wilp to make a decision based on this information. Some Huwilp have resources to do this work themselves, but there are many Huwilp that cannot get these resources to their Simoogit. Our office can ensure the information and data are available to all Simgigyat so they can make informed decisions. This office will also ensure that any major projects are fully communicated and collaborated at both the watershed level and the entire Gitxsan Laxyip.