Federal government agrees to $11 M in funding for Tsay Keh Dene Nation

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — The federal government has announced it has signed an agreement providing over $11 million in funds to the Tsay Keh Dene Nation located near Williston Lake.

According to a press release, the funding will go to support key priorities identified by the Nation, located west of Fort St. John.

Those include economic development, governance, community development, wellness and socio-economic opportunities.

Tsay Keh Dene Chief Johnny Pierre says the funding announced on Wednesday, February 19th will go toward “overcoming gaps” from a socio-economic standpoint.

“[We as a Nation] have struggled for decades with the shameful legacy of colonization in Canada in all of its forms,” said Pierre. “The agreement signed today empowers Tsay Keh Dene to gradually overcome some of the challenges faced by Tsay Keh Dene because of this legacy.”

Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations. Gary Anandasangaree, said the agreement goes toward restoring a relationship between the parties and reflects the government’s commitment to “repairing past injustices”.

“By supporting Tsay Keh Dene Nation’s vision for governance, community wellness, and economic development, we are laying the groundwork for lasting success,” Anandasangaree said.

The funding is part of a grant agreement announced by Tsay Keh Dene Nation and the federal government in March of 2024.