Evidence on the Adequacy of First Nations Consultation - BC Hydro ...

3 – Consultation Assessment
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the proposed EMP from the KNC. Also, the KNC will have an extensive role in the AIA,
directly and via its company, who is expected to be carrying out the AIA work. In
addition, the results of the AIA will inform the EMP, along with the AUIS information
provided by the KNC. BC Hydro has also described in this supplemental filing the
commitment to address access issues.
As noted above, BC Hydro is committed to continued consultation with the KNC and its
member First Nations during Project design and implementation.
BC Hydro and the KNC have participated in productive negotiations regarding the
provision of benefits. As of May 6, 2010, these negotiations were not, however,
complete. BC Hydro remains optimistic that the negotiations will result in benefits,
impact management and procurement agreements. If the KNC and BC Hydro conclude
agreements before the conclusion of these proceedings, BC Hydro and BCTC will
promptly notify the BCUC and intervenors.
BC Hydro understands that the KNC does not oppose the Project, provided their
concerns are addressed. BC Hydro is of the view that most, if not all, of the material
concerns have been largely addressed, subject to agreeing on the details of the
proposed arrangements and appropriate review and approval by the KNC and the
member First Nations.
In view of BC Hydro’s extensive consultation to date, the transmission line route
changes and other commitments that have been made, the negotiations with the KNC
regarding benefits, impact management, and procurement opportunities, and BC
Hydro’s commitment to on‐going consultation during Project design and
implementation, BC Hydro is of the view that consultation with the KNC to this stage of
the Project have been reasonable and adequate.
BCTC Columbia Valley Transmission Project – <strong>Evidence</strong> on Adequacy of First Nations Consultation 18
7 May 2010