A friendly hockey game in the northern community of Fort Ware symbolized the teamwork required to achieve the recently signed final agreement between the Province, BC Hydro and Kwadacha First Nation.

The hockey game was played on an ice rink that Kwadacha recently constructed for community members to enjoy. As a result of the settlement, they are also undertaking a comprehensive plan to address housing shortages and improve living standards in the community.

Minister Michael de Jong tries to track down the puck in front of Chief Donny Van Somer and a young member of the Kwadacha Nation. The ice rink is a year-round facility for all members of the Kwadacha Nation to gather and enjoy.

Kwadacha First Nation members voted 95 per cent in favour of the final agreement which addresses historic damages from the creation and operation of the W.A.C. Bennett Dam and Williston Reservoir. It will build opportunities for community economic and cultural development for future generations. Chief Donny Van Somer joined Minister de Jong and representatives of the Province and BC Hydro to sign the historic final agreement on November 27, 2008.

This agreement embodies the spirit of the New Relationship and will allow all three parties to now move forward and build a stronger future together.