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CRD task force delves into First Nations' issues

Victoria councillor Marianne Alto will chair "special task force"

The Capital Regional District is launching a Special Task Force on First Nations.

The new task force will meet with First Nations leaders to explore their interest in and discuss options for bringing their governments into CRD governance and decision-making.

“This initiative underscores the CRD board’s commitment to building bridges with our First Nations partners,” said CRD board chair Nils Jensen.

The task force will be led by CRD director Marianne Alto (Victoria), who will be joined in her new role by CRD directors Maja Tait (Sooke) and Ryan Windsor (Central Saanich).

The first priority of the task force is reaching out to First Nations political counterparts and listening to their ideas and concerns.

“Through our role in providing regional and shared local government services, the CRD wants to ensure First Nations aspirations are respected, considered and supported,” said Alto.

“Key to this is taking the time to get to know one another, listening carefully, taking responsibility for past actions and following through on our commitments one step at a time.”

Over the course of the year, the task force will report back to the CRD and provide recommendations for actions to the CRD board.