The Tahltan Nation has voted in favour of entering into a proposed Impact and Benefit Agreement related to the Eskay Creek Revitalization Project.
Official referendum results released December 14 show 77.4 percent of participating voters supported the Tahltan Central Government, Iskut Band, and Tahltan Band moving forward with an agreement with Eskay Creek Mining Ltd.
According to the certified results, 1,753 ballots were cast in total. Of those, 1,357 voted yes and 388 voted no. Eight ballots were recorded as spoiled, rejected, or cancelled.
The referendum question asked voters whether they supported leadership entering into the proposed agreement in relation to the revitalization of the Eskay Creek mine.
The results were formally declared in Dease Lake on Sunday by Electoral Officer Marcus Hadley, confirming the referendum had passed.
The Eskay Creek Revitalization Project involves the redevelopment of the former Eskay Creek mine site, located within Tahltan territory. The Impact and Benefit Agreement is intended to outline matters such as economic participation, employment opportunities, and protections for Tahltan interests connected to the project.
Tahltan leadership has not yet released additional details on implementation or next steps following the vote.
