Kitsumkalum First Nation signed two liquefied natural gas (LNG) benefits deals with Canada’s British Columbia province.
The Coastal Fund Agreement and LNG Benefits Agreement provide funding to Kitsumkalum for the life of the LNG Canada project.
The agreements ensure Kitsumkalum members will benefit from training, jobs, updated infrastructure, business opportunities and the increased revenue and growth that this project will bring.
“LNG Canada is a promising economic opportunity for Kitimat, Kitsumkalum and our entire province,” said Scott Fraser , minister of indigenous relations and reconciliation.
Kitsumkalum Chief Don Roberts said, “With these agreements in place, I am supportive of the LNG Canada project and other LNG projects where cumulative impacts, both environmental and socioeconomic, are mitigated to ensure continued Aboriginal Title and Rights are enjoyed by the people of Kitsumkalum.”
The LNG Benefits Agreement provides initial funding to assist Kitsumkalum in preparing for and managing the impacts of LNG development. A total of $20.35 million over four years will be used to create a land and economic development fund, a community development fund and a legacy fund.
The Coastal Fund Agreement will provide an annual base payment plus incremental project funding that reflects the volume of LNG that is being produced. The total annual payment once the facility is in operation is anticipated to be in the range of $750,000, though this will vary depending on the volume of LNG that is shipped.