Mutual agreement reached with the Wet’suwet’en Hereditary Chiefs and the RCMP
By Contributor
The importance of finding a path forward has been a priority for the RCMP.
The BC RCMP are pleased to confirm that discussions with the Wet’suwet’en Hereditary Chiefs have led to an agreement on Wednesday, February 26th which supports their upcoming meetings with government representatives this week.
Deputy Commissioner Jennifer Strachan, Commanding Officer of the BC RCMP and A/Commr. Eric Stubbs, Criminal Operations Officer – CORE Policing have been actively engaged in discussions with the Wet’suwet’en Hereditary Chiefs over the past week. The discussions focussed on the need to ensure the Morice West Forest Service Road (MWFSR) remains open and free of any obstructions. As well as, our presence in the territory and the future of Community-Industry Safety Office (C-ISO) located at the 29 km mark of the MWFSR.
In an act of good faith, the RCMP closed the C-ISO on Friday February 21st and relocated its base of operations to the Houston RCMP Detachment. The Wet’suwet’en Hereditary Chiefs have committed that the road will remain open during their discussions with the Federal and Provincial governments. Therefore, the RCMP has confirmed that patrols along the Morice West Forest Service Road will cease during the period of discussions with the government representatives. The RCMP has agreed not to patrol the road unless there is an emergency call for service, such as a motor vehicle accident with injuries. To ensure the Hereditary Chief’s commitment is being respected, members of the Wet’suwet’en Rangers will patrol the road, while talks are being held. They will confirm to the RCMP that road is clear and there are no obstructions.
We truly appreciate the respect and openness shown by all parties during these important discussions. The efforts undertaken were positive and productive, and we remain available to continue those discussions in the weeks ahead.
