Report of Cheekye River and Fan Expert Review Panel
Departmental Summary
In February 2012, the Squamish Nation Chiefs and Council approved an Interim Work Plan for the Intergovernmental Relations, Natural Resources and Revenue (IRNR&R) department, which mandated a review of all projects in the Project Negotiation and Development (PND) unit. There are a number of projects on the table for the Nation to consider and move forward. The purpose of the review is to determine priority projects, and to ensure that the proper foundation is put into place to ensure the success of these projects. Some projects are currently on hold, pending the outcome of this review.
In terms of determining priorities for development projects, one of the most critical foundational issues is the negotiation of acceptable Service Agreements to support these projects. Any advancement in developments at Senakw, Chekwelp or Seymour Creek, for example, will first require the conclusion of successful service agreement negotiations. We continue to advance our planning for these projects while negotiations are underway.
A strong foundation for success also requires that we review and strengthen IRNR&R policies and procedures, such as planning, reporting and communications; structure and management of Departmental employees and consultants; financial management and financial controls; conflict of interest guidelines; and briefings and information management/security.
As a result of this review, we are developing and implementing a full suite of policies and procedures to ensure consistency and success. These policies and procedures include:
- A framework for setting priorities regarding PND projects;
- Financial Management Policy and Procedures;
- Major Development Projects – Policy and Procedures;
- Procurement Policy and Procedures;
- Real Estate Advisory Panel Policy and Procedures;
- Code of Conduct and Conflict of Interest Guidelines
These policies and procedures will further enhance accountability and transparency in the Department.