April 30, 2026
Comox Valley
K’ómoks First Nation Responds to Mischaracterizations of Treaty Act (Bill 20)
K’ÓMOKS TERRITORY (COURTENAY, BC) — APRIL 30, 2026 — K’ómoks First Nation is addressing recent concerns that have been stated regarding the K’ómoks Treaty Act (Bill 20), noting several inaccuracies about the Treaty and the process that led to these concerns. K’ómoks leadership remains clear that the process is sound and that the Nation is confident in the mandate provided by its members through a democratic ratification vote.
“K’ómoks has participated in good faith treaty negotiations for over 30 years,” said Chief Nicole Rempel. “Our people have spoken, and we stand firmly behind that mandate.”
References to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) in the Treaty have been misunderstood. In the K’ómoks Treaty, UNDRIP forms part of a broader interpretive framework alongside judicial decisions, common law, and established legal principles. This is distinct from provincial legislation such as DRIPA. The Treaty does not require British Columbia laws to align with UNDRIP, nor does it require all laws to be interpreted through it.
The K’ómoks Treaty settlement lands are comprised of crown and fee simple lands previously purchased on a willing seller willing buyer basis. There are no private lands included.
The K’ómoks Treaty reflects a modern approach as a Living Agreement that can evolve over time. It includes provisions for review every 10 years to ensure it remains relevant as circumstances change, while still providing certainty by clearly defining the section 35 rights that can be exercised and addressing past claims.
The Treaty also contains clear provisions confirming that it does not affect or determine the rights of other Indigenous Nations. Courts in British Columbia have upheld similar provisions as a “complete answer” to concerns about impacts on neighbouring Nations’ rights, and the Treaty includes mechanisms to address any issues should they arise.
K’ómoks acknowledges concerns raised by Wei Wai Kum First Nation but notes that some public statements do not reflect the full context. K’ómoks and Wei Wai Kum share deep historical and family connections, and K’ómoks has made substantial efforts over many years to engage in protocol discussions and find collaborative solutions, including recent discussions as of April 10, 2026. Despite these efforts, litigation has been pursued by Wei Wai Kum, including ongoing claims to K’ómoks Indian Reserve lands.
The Treaty land package represents approximately 12,500 acres, which is less than one percent of the territory claimed by Wei Wai Kum and leaves millions of acres of Crown land available. The Province has also offered Wei Wai Kum accommodation options to address concerns. K’ómoks remains open to renewed discussions and has successfully advanced agreements with other neighbouring Nations, but meaningful progress requires a commitment to dialogue over litigation.
K’ómoks is concerned by the spread of misinformation and reiterates that the Treaty does not take away rights from other Nations. It reflects decades of negotiation, legal certainty, and the will of its members. Delays to the legislative process will not resolve longstanding issues but will prolong uncertainty for K’ómoks members, particularly Elders who have worked toward this moment for many years.
“Our people have waited long enough. We are ready to move forward.”
Media Contact:
Melissa Quocksister
Communications & Engagement Consultant
K’ómoks First Nation Treaty
250 334 6515
