Left to right: Craig Richmond, president and CEO of YVR Airport and chief Wayne Sparrow of the Musqueam Indian Band
Vancouver International Airport (YVR) in Canada has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Musqueam Indian Band (Musqueam), a local First Nations community recognized as the oldest-known residents of Vancouver.
The 30-year Sustainability & Friendship Agreement is based on four pillars of sustainability – social, economic, environment and governance. The agreement recognizes the evolving nature of the relationship between YVR and Musqueam through education, employment, revenue sharing, an engagement protocol for long-term development and support of operations.
Some of the details of the agreement include a path of education to employment with a number of scholarships and new jobs; 1% of annual revenue from YVR going to the community; identification and protection of archeological resources; and support for ongoing airport operations and long-term development plans at the airport.
Musqueam chief Wayne Sparrow said, “Friendship between Musqueam Indian Band and YVR is incredibly important for our people. YVR is located on our traditional lands and we all benefit from a positive relationship.
“This agreement provides Musqueam with important education and employment opportunities at YVR, a voice in future development, environmental enhancements and restoration and financial support that will allow our people to continue to grow our economic foundation and reinvest in our community.”
Craig Richmond, president and CEO, Vancouver Airport Authority, the airport operator, added, “This is an incredible day as we mark the evolution of our relationship with the Musqueam people. We are proud to look ahead to a future where we continue to learn and grow together for the economic and social benefit of the region. Being able to celebrate this new and exciting way forward with our friends is not only good for our business – it is the right way for YVR to move forward in the community we serve.”
Vancouver International Airport and Musqueam Indian Band are located in the same community on land that is Musqueam traditional territory. Musqueam have historically played an integral role in many areas of YVR’s business and operations, from noise management and environmental advisory to development planning and cultural engagement.
The Agreement is subject to completion of Musqueam’s member consultation process before the end of July.