BC Tables Komoks First Nation Treaty Legislation

The British Columbia government took a significant step toward finalizing a modern treaty with the Komoks First Nation on April 14, 2026, by tabling implementation legislation in the provincial legislature, nearly 30 years after negotiations first began.

The proposed treaty would affirm the Komoks First Nation's ownership of approximately 3,442 hectares of land scattered across Vancouver Island. It also provides for the eventual purchase of an additional 1,592 hectares from the province. All lands involved are currently held by either the First Nation or the provincial government, ensuring no immediate transfers from private owners.

For the Komoks First Nation, which has about 350 members, the agreement marks a shift away from the band administration imposed under the Indian Act toward a self-governing authority applicable to all members, regardless of residency. This structure would empower the nation to enact its own laws on key areas such as taxation, child protective services, and the administration of justice. The treaty further outlines a collaborative framework for developing shared decision-making processes with governments on resource stewardship, including wildlife,...