http://www.bclocalnews.com/news/134133753.html

Lax Kw'alaam ink hydro line deal

The north coast First Nation of Lax Kw'alaam has signed a deal tied to the Northwest Transmission Line.

The deal, details of which were not released, provides training programs, contracting and jobs, and other economic development opportunities.

Impact benefit agreements have already been signed with Gitxsan houses, Gitanyow Nation, Skii km Lax Ha, Kitselas First Nation, Metlakatla First Nation, the Tahltan Nation and the Nisga’a Nation during the past several months.

The Kitsumkalum are now the only First Nation to have traditional territory affected by the line to not sign an impact benefit agreement.

The line will run 344km from Terrace up Hwy37 North, providing power to several mineral properties.

Although details of the Lax Kw'alaams were not released, a press release today indicated BC Hydro will "continue to work with the Band to ensure safe, reliable power, including back up options, to the community [of Port Simpson]."

Earlier this year, Lax Kw'alaams members ordered crews doing test drilling in preparation for line construction to leave their traditional territory.